Palik-Mana Kachina by Manuel Chavarria

Manuel “Bob” Chavarria, from First Mesa at Hopi, is recognized as the one of the premier carvers  of “Old-Style” Traditional Hopi Kachinas. These kachinas are carved from cottonwood into the simple, minimal shapes of  the earliest  kachinas with very simple bodies, arms and legs. The identifying  details of each kachina are faithfully added using paint, feathers, fur and other materials to the masks, headdresses, and apparel. This doll is the Palik-Mana Kachina  (Butterfly Maiden), who appears in the Spring Dances, bringing life to the flowers and fields. She is made from a twisted piece of cottonwood, painted with natural pigments and finished in Chavarria’s signature “distressed” manner. Her beautiful face, dress and tablita (headdress) are painted with vivid colors, circa 1990s, 8 inches tall.