1920s Hopi Mudhead Koyemsi Katsina Doll, Cottonwood, Collection No.

Native American Hopi. Native American, Southwestern United States, Arizona, Hopi, ca. 1920s to 1930s CE. A charming early katsina doll (tihu) of Koyemsi, the Mudhead, carved from cottonwood root and painted with natural mineral pigments. The round head carries the characteristic knobs at the crown and sides, with simple painted eyes and mouth in black and red. The salmon-pink body, painted in the earth-toned colour that gives the Mudheads their name, has a black diagonal sash across the chest, arms carved close to the body, a black kilt and short legs on a shared base. A fine cord encircles the neck. Mudheads are the beloved clowns and drummers of Hopi katsina dances, known for their games, humour and antics. The worn, flaking surface reveals the white kaolin ground beneath, a hallmark of early dolls. The underside bears an old collection number, “26710-43,” and a faded pencil inscription reading “Kachina Doll, Hopi, Arizona.” A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. Item # 206415

Estimate:$750

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