$255.00
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Late 20th Century
10" H
Hand Carved from Cottonwood Root Holding a Rattle and a Whip and Adorned with Feathers
In Very Good Condition
Reginald Dallas (also known as Reginald Wade Dallas, 1953–2011), a Hopi carver from the Moencopi area of the Hopi Reservation in Arizona. He was part of a family of carvers, including brothers Leon and Eugene Dallas, and his work was well-regarded in the Southwest, featured in magazines and collections.
The Aya (also called Aya Katsina or Rattle Racer) is a somewhat rare figure in Hopi katsina representations. Its name comes from the mask design, which mimics a Hopi gourd rattle (often given to children during ceremonies like Powamuya or Niman). This katsina acts as a "runner" or racer in dances—he chases participants with a yucca whip to encourage running races, sometimes tied to rewards like piki bread. The head/mask typically features a rounded, gourd-like shape with painted designs (such as circular patterns, lines, or symbols resembling rattle decorations), often in colors like blue, red, black, and yellow, with elements like feathers, fur ruffs, and traditional attire including kilts, sashes, and accessories.
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.