NAVAJO KACHINA DOLLS

Kachina or (Katsina) dancers are a traditional part of the Zuni and Hopi way of life.

 

Kachinas are thought to walk upon the earth at the beginning of each year.

They dance to bring fertility, abundance and a good harvest.

When the Kachinas return to the spirit world they take the prayers of the people

with them that all may continue to thrive on the earth for another year.

The original Kachina dolls were gifted to the children and were used as a means of educating them about their traditions.

They were carved from a single piece of cottonwood root which was then smoothed and painted.

As the Pueblos become less isolated carvers began to fulfill the demand for the Kachina dolls  from visiting tourists.

Eventually the Navajo began carving Kachina dolls in their own creative way, adding leather, feathers and fur.

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Kachina dolls are now often given as a gift designed to bring abundance and health.

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