$175.00
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Late 20th Century
8.5" H
Hand Carved from Cottonwood Root of the Character Longhair with Great Fine Carved Detail by D. K. Y.
In Very Good Condition
Dorman Kootsvaybuma is a Hopi artist and kachina (katsina) doll carver from the Hopi Reservation in Arizona, specifically associated with the village of Hotevilla on Third Mesa.He is best known for creating traditional Hopi katsina dolls hand-carved from cottonwood root, painted with detailed designs, and often signed with his initials D.K.Y. (or DKY).
The Long Hair Katsina is associated with bringing rain, moisture, and fertility to the arid Southwest, often depicted with long flowing hair (symbolizing rain or clouds), a distinctive mask (typically orange or yellow with black markings), a cloak or cape, and feathers. It originates from influences including Zuni Pueblo but is widely danced and represented in Hopi ceremonies, symbolizing life, positivity, sustainability, and messages of encouragement to live fully.
Both the Hopi and the Navajo carve this style of doll.
The purpose of the Longhair Katsinam is to provide rain to the Hopi villages. They arrive in the villages in groups, often accompanied by Yellow or White Corn Maidens. They sing beautiful melodies for all, carrying optimistic themes and messages encouraging living life to its fullest. A true beacon of positivity, Longhairs are cherished as favorites among the Hopi Katsinam.
In addition to raising spirits by way of song, Longhair Katsinam perform a dance that usually brings a pleasant rainfall to nourish the earth and help crops to grow.
Their appearance is largely symbolic of their role in society. Their long, flowing hair and beards, for example are representative of the rain they inspire to fall. Eagle fluffs are worn to symbolize cloud bursts as the source of that rain. Their backs are often adorned with feathers to represent prayers for rain.
Due to the fragile nature of kachina dolls, we do not guarantee they will not break during shipping. We do our best to pack them well, but due to their fragile nature and even with the best packing, small pieces can break. If you are purchasing kachina dolls, please keep this in mind.
