Beliefs about Navajo Kachina Dolls
Beautiful Navajo Kachina dolls provide insight
into Native American traditions
We commonly refer to the beautiful statues crafted by Native American artisans as "Kachina dolls". This is a bit of a misnomer, in the sense that these small figures are nothing like the cuddly dolls that are the favorite toy of little girls from other cultures. Instead, Kachinas should be viewed more like religious icons, created to resemble the spirits of Indian mythology known as "katsinas". Decorative Kachina figures have been used for generations to teach Native American children about their tribal beliefs. The children believe in Kachinas in much the same way as Christian children believe in Santa Claus. Kastinas are guardians or good spirits which intercede between men and Gods. It is believed that they have supernatural powers and the ability to grant blessings and good fortune, and for the children they are associated with gifts and other delights.
The religious traditions of carving Kachina dolls from cottonwood roots originated with the Hopi Indians, and to that extent "authentic" kachina dolls are made only by certain Hopi artists that have trained in the art of their creation and symbolism. Indeed the most expensive Kachina dolls are still crafted by the Hopi - when you can find them, as most are kept for their own ceremonies. Fortunately for the rest of us, the Navajo Indians - a close tribal neighbor of the Hopi - have enthusiastically adopted the custom of making Kachina dolls. However, the spiritual beliefs around the Kachinas are not as important for the Navajo craftsmen as it is for the Hopi. Rather the unique and colorful Navajo Kachina dolls are more important to them in an economical way.
Although the Navajo adopt many of the traditions surrounding Kachina dolls from the Hopi, and they do hold a great deal of reverence toward them, the lack of strict religious directives allow them to be much more liberal to embellish their dolls in an individually stylized and artistic way. Navajo Kachina dolls are carved from wood and and lavishly adorned by adding real leather, eagle feathers, rabbits fur, beads, turquoise, shells and other materials to bring out a unique Navajo style. Each authentic Navajo Kachina doll is individually crafted and painted by hand. Each is detailed with different clothing and accessories. Therefore, each is a unique "one of a kind" creation, as no two are exactly alike. Carved Kachinas were originally only for children, but today they are made for everyone to enjoy. Navajo Kachina dolls are now considered as much of a collectible as Navajo textiles, jewelry, baskets, pottery and the multitude other art works they make. The best prices and selection to be found on authentic Navajo Kachina dolls is from the shops and trading posts on or near their reservation in Arizona and New Mexico. However, if you are not fortunate enough to be in that area, the next best place to buy Navajo Kachina dolls at discount prices is at internet auctions.
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