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SKU: 250228-04

Hopi Kachina Early Moning By Anthony "Tony" and Maliah Briones

$335.00

Shipping calculated at checkout.

Late 20th Century

16.75" H

Sculpture style with Pueblo and Carved Pottery Jar with Carved Turquoise and Shells Sunface

In Good Condition

Estate Collection

Anthony "Tony" Briones (b 1966) is an award winning carver.  A Hopi carver based in Arizona, Tony specializes in traditional and action-oriented kachina dolls.  His work often features intricate detailing, such as embroidered clothing and symbolic accessories, blending reverence for Hopi traditions with modern sculptural flair.  He has pieces in collections like the Heard Museum in Phoenix, and his dolls appear in auctions (e.g., Larsen Art Auction) and galleries like the Heard Museum Shop and was given to recipients of the annual Hon Kachina Volunteer Awards for 15 years. 

Maliah Briones: Tony's wife and frequent collaborator, Maliah contributes to painting, detailing, and finishing on joint pieces.  While less individually profiled, her involvement adds layered artistry, often enhancing the vibrant colors and textures in their shared works. Collaborative credits appear in Hopi art circles, emphasizing family-based creation traditions.

The Hopi Sun Face Kachina (also called Sunface Katsina, Tawa, or Dawa) is a significant spirit being in Hopi Pueblo culture of the southwestern United States. Kachinas (Hopi: katsinam) are supernatural spirits that represent natural forces, ancestors, and celestial elements. They act as messengers between the Hopi people and the spiritual world, bringing blessings like rain, fertility, and harmony.Meaning and SymbolismThe Sunface Katsina embodies the sun's life-giving power. It symbolizes:
  • Warmth and light essential for growing crops (corn, beans, and squash are central to Hopi agriculture).
  • Hope and a bright future, especially playfulness for the young.
  • Shelter and protection for the elderly.
  • Renewal, vitality, abundance, and cosmic balance.
The sun serves as a celestial guide for planting seasons and ceremonies. This katsina sometimes appears with the Morning Singer to welcome the rising sun. Its presence emphasizes living in harmony with nature.

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The mask's colors hold deep meaning: the top half often reflects the hues of first light (dawn), while the lower half represents the full, bright sun after sunrise. The face is typically circular with geometric designs—often featuring a turquoise or blue face, black rectangular eyes and mouth, and radiating elements like feathers or a sunburst halo that evoke the sun's rays.

Condition: Very Good

Tribe: Hopi

Year Range: 1975 - 2000

Region: Southwest

Dimensions: 16.75 in

Category: Kachina Doll

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