HOPI, Arizona - Lot 430

HOPI, Arizona Kachina doll representing Wakas, the cattle spirit of Hopi ceremonies. The mask features a prominent cylindrical muzzle, round conical eyes projected forward and circular side ears painted red. On the cheeks, two stylized motifs - yellow shapes surmounted by black arches - probably evoke clouds, symbols of rain and fertility. A feathered headdress on top completes the ensemble. The brightly-colored body is dressed in a belted white loincloth, with an animal tail attached at the back. Carved and painted wood (probably cottonwood), felt and various materials. Circa 1960-1980 Some polychromy and age marks. Wakas is a guardian spirit linked to livestock and animal resources. He is invoked for his strength, the fertility of the herd and the prosperity of the community. This type of Kachina, with its codified aesthetic, was sometimes given to children for educational purposes, but it was mainly made