Manuel "Bob" Chavarria, Hand Kachina

Manuel “Bob” Chavarria, from First Mesa at Hopi, is recognized as a carver of “Old-Style” Traditional Hopi Kachinas. This kachina is called Matia or Malatsmo (Hand Kachina), and appears in Hopi ceremonies, where he runs in the men’s races. When he overtakes a runner he slaps his hand on the runner’s back, leaving a hand print. If he is beaten in the race, he gives piki bread to the runners. This doll is made from a curving cottonwood branch, painted with natural pigments and and finished in Chavarria’s signature “distressed” manner. He wears a painted canvas kilt, has twine tassels and feathers in its headdress, circa 1990s, 9 ¾ inches tall.