Hopi Kachina Flute Lenang Doll By Master Carver Ros George

Late 20th Century

11.5" H Including Base

Hand Carved and Painted in Yellow, Green, Orange, Red, Brown and Black Colors with Green Felt that has been applied to the base Signed "Flute Lenang"  

Excellent Condition A Remarkable Carving in Every Way

Ros George is a celebrated Hopi carver from the Second Mesa village of Shungopavi on the Hopi Reservation in Arizona.  He is profiled in the 1985 book Hopi Kachinas and Their Carvers by Theda Bassman, where he is one of about 20 master carvers highlighted for his traditional techniques.  George carves exclusively with a pocket knife for the main shaping and a razor blade for intricate details, creating pieces that blend cultural authenticity with artistic finesse.  His work often features vibrant paints derived from natural pigments and includes symbolic elements like feathers, turquoise, and cornmeal accents.  George's carvings are sought after by collectors for their spiritual depth and fine craftsmanship, with pieces appearing in galleries like Kachina House and Len Wood's Indian Territory.

The Lenang Kachina, also known as the Flute Kachina, is a revered figure in Hopi culture, symbolizing a spirit associated with water and fertility, believed to bring water to Hopi village springs.  Traditionally carved from cottonwood root, these kachina dolls are ceremonial objects used to educate Hopi children about spiritual beliefs.  The Lenang Kachina appears in the Bean Dance and Mixed Kachina Dances, distinguished by artificial flowers representing the four sacred directions, a moisture tablet on its back, and holding a flute and rattle. While rooted in Hopi tradition, it has closer ties to Zuni lore, often featuring Hopi-specific details like intricately carved skirts and sashes.