A HOPI POLYCHROME WOOD KACHINA DOLL
A HOPI POLYCHROME WOOD KACHINA DOLL

Details
A HOPI POLYCHROME WOOD KACHINA DOLL
Representing Hahai-i Wuhti or Kachina Mother, standing on straight legs, arms carved in relief close to torso, wearing woman's dress, maiden's shawl, ruff, and white moccasins, sack mask painted white with red spots on her checks, crescent eyes and mouth, red semi-ovular eyes on the side of the mask
6in. (15.2cm.) high

Lot Essay

"Hahai-i Wuhti is said to be the mother of all kachinas. The reference is to duty rather than actual blood relationship. She is also spoken of as the mother of dogs. Her real children are the monster, the Nataskas, with Chaveyo as the father, although other Hopi say that her husband is Eototo and that she corresponds in a female role to his position. It is true that she is in many important ceremonies such as the the 'Hopi Shalako', the 'Water Serpent' and the 'Powamu'. Hahai-i is unusual in that she is quite vocal, a rarity among kachinas (Wright, 1977, p. 56)." For more information also see Colton, 1959, p. 29, no. 37; Voth, 1901; Fewkes, 1894, 1903; Stephen, 1936; Earl and Kennard, 1938.

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