Two-Horned Priest (Kwan) and Maiden Katsina Dolls
Katsina (Kachina) sculptures, traditional carvings • Indigenous Hopi or Zuni artist (unidentified without signature view)
Style & Movement
Traditional Native American Puebloan Art
Medium & Technique
Hand-carved cottonwood root, painted with matte mineral pigments or acrylics, adorned with feathers, rabbit fur, and textile elements
Creation Period
Late 20th century (circa 1970–1990)
Dimensions & Format
Vertical small-scale sculptures; larger figure approximately 8-10 inches, smaller figure 4-6 inches
Subject Description
The figures represent traditional Katsinam (spirit beings). The larger figure features a Two-Horned Priest headdress (connected to the Kwan society) and a white kilt with geometric patterns. The smaller figure depicts a Katsin-mana (Maiden) with traditional hair whorls/square ears and a black mask face.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Very Good; minor losses to feathers and aging of natural fiber elements
Estimated Market Value
$250 - $600 (as a grouping)
Auction Estimate
$150 - $400
Provenance History
Likely acquired from a Southwest United States gallery or trading post; typical of private collections focused on Native American folk art
Art Historical Significance
Katsina carvings represent the bridge between the spiritual and physical worlds in Puebloan culture. These specific versions are 'tithu' (dolls), originally intended as educational gifts for children to learn the attributes of various spirits, now a highly collected fine art form.
Notable Features
Includes a variety of materials including possible rabbit fur and feathers; indicates intermediate level craftsmanship with attention to traditional liturgical attire
Condition Issues
Fraying of feathers, slight fading of pigments due to light exposure, potential dust accumulation in porous wooden areas
Conservation Recommendations
Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent pigment fading; store in a stable humidity environment to prevent wood cracking; light dusting with a soft-bristle brush only
Collector Notes
Wood carve kachina