Navajo Kachina Mudhead Clown Doll

ca. 1970 - 1980

16" H x 7.75" L x 6.625" W

Hand Carved from Cottonwood Root and Adorned with Fur, Feathers, Felt, Leather, Shells and Turquoise Seed Bead Necklace Holding a Brum and Drum Stick

From a Private Collection

Excellent Condition but Missing a Few Feathers

The Navajo Kachina Mudhead Clown Doll is a handcrafted Native American doll representing the Mudhead (also known as Koyemsi or Koyemsi'taka), a clown-like figure in Southwestern Indigenous traditions. While Kachina dolls (or Katsina dolls) originated with the Hopi people as spiritual representations of supernatural beings, the Navajo Nation adopted and adapted this art form in the 20th century, creating their own distinctive versions. These dolls are not just decorative; they embody cultural, ceremonial, and educational roles, often blending humor with deeper teachings.