SIGNED HENRY "H. H." SHELTON KACHINA DOLL FROM PUEBLO NATIVE TRIBE. Kachina Doll (or Katsina dolls or Qatsina dolls) from the Pueblo Native tribes primarily the Hopi and Zuni. They are carved decorated figures that represent the spiritual beings, or Kachinas (Katsinam), who act as messengers between humans and the gods. Traditionally, these dolls are carved by male family members (usually from cottonwood root) and given to young girls and new brides to educate them about the hundreds of different Kachinas, their masks, and their ceremonial functions. The dolls represent spirit beings who control natural forces like rain, fertility, and harvests, and who also serve as moral guides and disciplinarians.
ARTIST PROFILE: HENRY "H. H." SHELTON was a well-known Hopi carver of kachina dolls, a master of painting and sculpture, and a member of a prominent artistic family. Born in 1929 in the village of Oraibi, his Hopi name was Ho-ya'oma, meaning "Arrow Carrying". His father was Peter Shelton Sr. and his brother was Peter Shelton Jr., both also accomplished kachina doll carvers. Shelton's work is highly sought after and can be found in museums like the Smithsonian and the Heard Museum, as well as numerous private collections. - Height: 13.5 inches. Estimate $150-200
