Alfred Lomaquahu Hano Mana Hopi Kachina #2052

This exquisite, sensitive kachina was carved by multi award-winning artist Alfred "Bo" Lomahquahu of the Hopi Pueblo in Arizona over six years ago. She's been in our private collection up until now. Alfred never carves two kachinas the same way, so she's unique.  She's over 15" tall and carved from ONE piece of cottonwood root (which resists cracking) except for the feather in her hair, the lilypads at her feet and the bird in her hand. Hano Mana appears in the Bean Dance on Second Mesa and in the Water Serpent Ceremony on First Mesa. She almost always has a turquoise face and a basket of corn, usually in her hands.

This kachina (or katsina) is very different from the "traditional style" of Hopi Kachina. The most distinctive feature of the modern contemporary dolls is their attention to detail: in this piece you can see the individual strands of her hair, her bracelets and turquoise necklace, the small wrinkle at her underarm and threads on her robe just to name a few. This micro-detailing has become possible with the advent of new high speed electric wood carving tools, which are expensive to buy and challenging to use. While many modern "action dolls" portray dynamic movements, there is a grace in the gentle resting pose of this exquisite maiden at the edge of a pool of water, releasing the golden bird of peace in her hand to the universe as though she's is making a peace offering to the world.

She's the epitome of feminine beauty, serenity and hope, and has brought years of enjoyment living with her.  Alfred has won every award possible at prestigious Indian art shows around the Southwest, his work is in collections around the world as well as in every book on contemporary Hopi carvers. He's won Best of Show and Blue Ribbons at Santa Fe's Indian Market, the Heard Museum and Gallup Ceremonial.  His booth at a show is always a destination to any serious kachina collector because Alfred sells out fast. 15 1/2" high x 7 1/2" deep x 7" wide. Signed, collectible piece. ($70 shipping and insurance additional)