Kachina Figure Item Number: 3255/1 a-b from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Large kachina doll. Carved from wood, figure is attached by nails through the feet to a square wooden stand (part b). Figure has a long torso, painted rust-red, with arms held close to body and fists at stomach, a wide square head, coloured a light green, with a long protruding nose and painted eyes and mouth. A thin twisted rope is tied around the neck and a red fringe of hair is attached to forehead. An ear protrudes from left side, and a bunch of tall brown and white feathers and down is attached opposite. A light tan skirt with small black linear design sits at waist, above short legs and large feet.
History Of Use
Katsinam dolls (singular kachina) are used amongst the Zuni and Hopi, but not the Pueblo people; they are carved wearing masks and costumes, and are usually regarded as profane. The masks resemble those used in ceremonies, and represent different spirits. The dolls are freely circulated and sold commercially.
Item History
- Made in New Mexico, USA and Arizona, USA
- Owned by Michael M. Koerner before July 20, 2017
- Received from Michael M. Koerner (Donor) on July 20, 2017
What
- Name
- Kachina Figure
- Identification Number
- 3255/1 a-b
- Type of Item
- figure
- Material
- cottonwood wood, feather, paint, synthetic fibre, cotton fibre and metal
- Part A
- height 42.5 cm, width 19.0 cm, depth 17.0 cm
- Part B
- height 1.0 cm, width 7.8 cm, depth 7.8 cm
Who
- Culture
- Hopi
- Previous Owner
- Michael M. Koerner
- Received from
- Michael M. Koerner (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- New Mexico, USA and Arizona, USA
When
- Ownership Date
- before July 20, 2017
- Acquisition Date
- on July 20, 2017
Other
- Condition
- fair
- Accession Number
- 3255/0001 a-b