Kachina Butterfly Maiden, Pahlik Mana Katsina
Carved work by Jimmie Kewanwytewa (Jimmie K.), Hopi sculptor (1889-1966), Arizona, USA
Mid-twentieth century
Carved wood (cottonwood) and painted
H. 40 cm
Butterfly Maiden Kachina doll, Pahlik Mana Katsina
H. 15 ¾ in
Provenance:
- Former collection of Nancy Sue & Judson C. Ball
- Bonhams, New York, 2012, lot 1058
- Former Barry Walsh Collection
Adorned with a spectacular colorful tabletta, this kachina figures the spirit of the Butterfly Maiden, Pahlik Mana. This female figure was present in the kiva (underground ceremonial chamber) during the ritual dances of February. She could be seen grinding corn, a sacred food that she then offered on the plaza during the dances. She was believed to bring rain, the promise of life and growth for animals and a bountiful harvest.
This figure was carved by Jimmie Kewanwytewa, better known as Jimmie K. He worked under the direction of Harold Colton at the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff from 1934 until his death. Beginning in the 1940s, he was the first kachina carver to sign his work with an initial painted in black ink under each foot (as in the carving shown here).
Along with Wilson Tawaquaptewa and Jimmy Koots, he is one of the most famous Hopi carvers.
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