Hopi Pueblo Owl Katchina Doll

ca.  1960

8.125" H x 4.5" L x 6.25" W

Hand Carved from Cottonwood Root Holding some Thin Sticks in Each Hand and Adorned with Yarn, Fabric, Felt, Leather, Synthetic Fur and Feathers

In Good Condition with Aged Wear

The Hopi Pueblo Owl Kachina Doll (also spelled Katsina or Mongwa/Mongwu in Hopi) is a traditional carved figure representing one of the many supernatural spirit beings central to Hopi religious and cultural life in northeastern Arizona.

The Owl Katsina, known as Mongwa (or sometimes Mongwu or Mongwa Wuhti for a female variant), is an important figure, often associated with the Great Horned Owl. Its key attributes and symbolism include Wisdom and intelligence — Owls are seen as keepers of the night and symbols of keen insight. The owl helps control rodents and pests, benefiting agriculture and balance in the environment. In many representations, the Owl is a leader among the warrior katsinam. It may carry a bow, arrows, or a whip and is called upon to discipline clowns (who represent improper or non-Hopi behavior) during dances. It stands at the edge of the dance circle, maintaining order.