Vintage Native American Hopi Carved Snake Dancer Kachina Dolls (Katsina Dolls)

Description

1980s Native American Hopi Carved Snake Dancer Katsina Dolls by Henry Shelton

Snake Dancer Katsinam (Chusona) appear at late summer dances. Chusona is said to dance with a snake in his mouth. Because his appearance at the dance attracted many non-natives and reactions to him were often inappropriate, the dance is closed to non-natives. Chusona is mistakenly taken for a Katsina. He is not, being rather a society personage, and one of great popularity. The Snake Dance has always had an intense fascination for the non-Hopi, and in consequence effigies of this personage have been carved for many years. We are excited to be able to offer this older pair. These two dancers have great details. The figures are approximately 13.5 inches tall. The base the scene stands on is 6.5 inches by 8.25 inches.