Hopi Pueblo Dragonfly Runner Kachina Doll by Manuel Denet Chavarria

Late 20th Century

10" H

Hand Carved and Painted from Cottonwood Root of an Old Style Dragonfly Runner

Private Santa Fe NM Collection

In Very Good Condition

Manuel is a traditional Hopi Katsina doll carver from near Polacca near 1st Mesa. He was taught and influenced by his grandparents and by carvers Walter Howato and Manfred Susunkewa. His style today favors large “distressed” old style dolls, carved often from large, curving imperfect pieces of cottonwood root. His dolls often carry mini-dolls that represent gifts for the children. (Biographical info from The Great Tradition of Hopi Katsina Carvers by Barry Walsh).

"Sivuftotovi or the Dragonfly Kachina carries a yucca leaf whip and a container of corn smut that he smears on his victims. If he overtakes his challenger, he may decide to use the yucca whip rather than smear his victim. There is quite a range of variation in the appearance of this kachina. Generally runners do not wear foxskins or bells around the legs as this interferes with their speed."