Adobe Gallery Blog

When we originally sold this katsina doll to a client in 2003, we were not able to identify it. Now that we have it back from the estate of that client, we decided to see if we could be more successful in its identification. As we always do when we are stumped regarding a katsina doll, we consulted Chad Burkhardt, noted Katsina expert. Our only input was that it was from Zuni, not Hopi, based on the articulating arms and the dense (not cottonwood) wood.

Chad's comments were that he agreed it was likely from Zuni Pueblo based on style and material but it is not an identifiable katsina representation that he has seen. He dated it to circa 1940s due to the paint on the legs and feet and the carving of the hands and feet.

When we originally purchased the doll from a client in Kansas City, it was part of a large collection of dolls, approximately 27, all of which were authentic, so we do not doubt the authenticity of this as a Zuni carving, we only do not know what Katsina it represents. It is an excellent carving that is typical of Zuni workmanship.

Condition: very good structural condition with a repair to the left hand and missing item in the other hand. Most of the body paint has worn off which is an indication that it was probably natural pigment, not commercial paint.
Provenance: originally from the collection of a Kansas City family
most recently from the estate of Michael F. Frost

Recommended Reading: Kachinas of the Zuni by Barton Wright

Subject: Zuni Pueblo Unidentified Katsina Doll
Carver Unknown
Category: Traditional
Origin: Zuni Pueblo
Medium: wood, fur, feathers, pigment
Size: 9-1/2" tall
Item # C3360o