Large Cactus Kachina by Clark Tenakhongva

This wonderful old style kachina doll was made by Hopi artist Clark Tenakhongva (1956-) from Third Mesa. He makes authentic kachina dolls inspired by those made at the turn of the 20th century. This is the "Cactus" or "Prickly Pear Fruit Kachina": in Hopi it is called Yung' a, yunya, or Nawuk' china. The ogrelike face features bulging eyes, sharp teeth & a painted beard made of natural bristles. Feathers adorn his head & pierce his ears. It was made to attach to the wall by the cotton string at the back of the neck. He hangs so that one hip is on the wall & the figure energetically arcs out into the room at an angle, which makes him seem lively. Tenakhongva carves his dolls from traditional cottonwood root & uses thick matte paints he prepares from natural pigments, which add authenticity to his work. He learned the artform from his grandfather & continues to build them by hand without modern tools. The body & head were made of a single piece of wood which retains it's natural curved shape. He added pieces of wood for the arms, eyes, ears & cactus pieces on the headress. It is signed CWT with his trademark picto of rabbit tracks in honor of his clan, the Rabbit Clan. This is a large piece, measuring approx 19" H x 15" W x 6" D. This kachina has so much personality & visual interest; he is sure to become one of your favorites! 

Very good condition displays near excellent!. This has had a little restoration & some of the feathers are distressed. Some breakage was repaired in the right arm & headdress. The feathers are all original, as found. 

Note: This kachina last appeared in person in the late 19th century during the springtime mixed dances (the Soyohim) at First Mesa alongside the Snow Maiden, his sister. Since then, it has only appeared as a kachina doll, which were originally created as educational/ spiritual gifts for children before becoming popular as collectible art.