Hopi Bear Kachina 6.5" Carving 1993 D Nasingoetewa Native American Cottonwood

Description

I have been a collector of Native American items since the 1970's.  I purchased this kachina at the Pendleton Roundup in 1995 at an Indian booth set up in the park.  I've had it all these years and just now noticed that the back of the feather on the right hand side is broken.
Hopi Kachinas exist in three senses: as spiritual beings, as dancers / characters in the yearly rituals (who are understood as metaphors for and to some extent manifestations of the beings), and as carved wooden figures depicting the beings. They serve a cultural role of explaining the Hopi way of life, particularly for indoctrinating children in the society's history, behavioral expectations, moral codes, and ritual practices. They are also part of the ceremony for inducting young children into the Kachina Society
The Bear Kachina is of such great strength that it is felt he can cure the sick. He appears in the kachina return or Soyal of First Mesa as the watchman or side dancer for the Chakwaina. In this role he appears a little different that he does in this illustration. He may come singly or in a group during the Palolokong Dance, and he may appear in a number of colors such as Sakwa Honau (Blue Bear) or Kocha Honau (White Bear). Probably he is most familiar in the Mixed Kachina Dance, dancing outside the lines. His most distinctive features is the presence of a bear footprint on either cheek.
This authentic and unique hand carved kachina is a rare find to add to your collection. This very fine and intricately detailed piece was carved by famed Hopi master carver Danny Nasingoetewa, Hopi, dated 1993.  It is very difficult to find anything carved by Danny available for sale anywhere.  For reference, Danny's brother is famed Hopi carver Raynard Nasingoetewa.
This old style bear fetish carving features very fine details, from the Hopi garment to the face and head details.
This is a highly collectible rare kachina by Danny Nasingoetewa - which is signed and dated on the bottom, see photo #12.
Measurements:  6 5/8" tall x 2" wide x 2" deep     The base is about 3 1/4" round
Questions???  Please ask before purchasing to avoid any misunderstandings.
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