Hopi Kachina Turtle Doll By Til Ford

ca. 2000

6" H

Hand Carved from Cottonwood Root

Excellent Condition

Til Ford is a traditional-style Hopi artifact representing the Turtle spirit, a vital figure in Hopi cosmology. The Turtle Katsina symbolizes water—a life-sustaining element in the arid Southwest—and is often depicted with features evoking rain and fertility. This particular doll is a hand-carved piece, likely made from cottonwood root (a common material for authentic Hopi tihu, or dolls), and showcases intricate details typical of Hopi craftsmanship.

The Turtle Katsina (Kahaila) is an important part of Hopi culture. The turtle is a water creature; water is viewed as a necessity to Hopi life The long beard on this Katsina represents falling rain, and the feathers on the beard and the back of the head are symbols of prayers. The Hopi believe that their ancestors came from the oceans; the turtle also comes from ocean tides making it sacred to the Hopi people. The Turtle Katsina is often mistaken for Katsin Mana, which is often seen with the Turtle. Animals are an important part of Hopi traditions as they provide guidance and wisdom in different aspects of life. Many Native Americans call the Earth Turtle Island; in this way the Turtle represents the living spirit of Mother Earth. The Turtle navigates both on land and in the water through its psychic connections with Mother Earth. Turtle is not only a symbol of longevity but is also an excellent messenger for carrying our prayers to the Earth. The Turtle is considered to be an animal that never sickens and brings health and luck.

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.