Hopi Pueblo Kachina Hornet (Tatangaya) Doll

Late 20th Century

9.375" H 

Hand Carved from Cottonwood Root and Hand Painted in Vivid Colors 

Excellent Condition

The Hornet Kachina appears in groups or singly in Mixed Kachina Dance, and the Pamuya. He is said to be of Zuni origin. Tatangaya represents the hornet or yellowjacket insect. In Hopi cosmology, he is a powerful warrior or guard kachina (one of the Mongwu or "chief" kachinas). He is feared and respected because real hornets are aggressive and sting painfully — Tatangaya embodies that fierce protective energy. He often appears as a disciplinarian: if children (or adults) misbehave during ceremonies, Tatangaya may chase them and pretend to sting them as a form of social control and teaching respect.

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.