Henry Naha
Warrior Mudhead
5 3/4"
H with 1/2" base
"The Hopi word 'Kipok'
means 'go to battle' or 'attacking someone.' This kachina frequently
comes in the summer time with the clowns, although he may infrequently
appear during the fast parade. He has been known to gather men
and bring them to the proper kiva.
"He functions as a 'hunter'
of the clowns and has been seen to chastise the other kachinas
he apperas with in the mixed Kachina dance and to threaten punishment
for misbehavior.
"Dolls of this kachina
are not found in earlier collections and were called Powak Koyemsi
only a couple of decades ago. This is usually a sign that the
Kachina has not been present for a very long time for it is still
regarded with suspicion."
- Ricks, J. Brent, et al., Kachinas:
Spirit Beings of the Hopi (116)
This fine Kachina was carved
by well known Hopi artist Henry Naha. Henry, an outstanding,
well respected carver who is a member of the Spider and Lizard
Clans, lives near Polacca, Arizona.
He was taught by one of the
masters - Cecil Calnimptewa, who is his Hopi godfather; and was
the husband of Avonne Naha, also a talented carver.
He has been an active carver
for over 20 years and learned from others such as Denis Tewa
and Joseph Dallas.
His figures always have an
excellent stance and pose suggesting great strength and pride.
The body proportions are in balance and the kachina has well
defined musculature. The hands are extremely well carved with
detailed fingers and fingernails.
He has signed the bottom of
the base: "H. Naha" along with a symbolic lizard, which
is his Clan symbol.
