Hopi Pueblo Long Hair Kachina Doll By Jonathan Day

Late 20th Century

10.25 H x 3.5" L x 3.625" W 2" Base - 8.5" Doll

Hand Carved from Cottonwood Root with Great Fine Detail and Painted in Red, Brown, Green, Teal, Yellow, Black and White Colors

In Excellent Condition

Hopi artist Jonathan Day, Sr. (born 1951, from Hotevilla, Arizona; also known as Dep Kuy Va) is a renowned carver celebrated for his contemporary sculptural style Katsina dolls. He began carving full-time in 1980, drawing inspiration from how he observes the Katsinas during dances—emphasizing realistic poses, dynamic movement, and bringing out the natural grain of the cottonwood root. His work is featured in books like "Hopi Katsina: 1,600 Artist Biographies" by Gregory Schaaf and is known for subtle coloring and lifelike detail.

The Hopi Long Hair Kachina (Angak'china or Angak'chin) Doll is a beloved representation in Hopi culture, symbolizing rain, fertility, and positivity. This Katsina (spirit being) is known for its flowing long hair and beard, which represent cascading rain and clouds. The Long Hair Katsina appears in group dances, often accompanied by Corn Maidens, singing sweet melodies that encourage living life fully while bringing gentle rains to nourish crops and the land.