Aaron J. Fredericks
Palhik Mana
17 3/4"
H with 2 3/4" base
The Palhik Mana, or Butterfly
Maiden, is one of the most popular kachinas in the Hopi carvers'
repertoire. This beautifully dressed figure is not really a kachina,
but rather a woman's dance personage.
Women who appear in the Mamzrau
Initiation Dance are called the Palhik' Manas. They are never
masked except on Third Mesa, although they all appear to be when
carved as dolls. The carvings typically include an elaborate
tableta including butterfly and corn symbols.
This old-style rendition by
award-winning artist Aaron J. Fredericks is a beautiful and unique
combination of tradional and contemporary expressions.
Aaron J. Fredericks is a younger carver whose work has rapidly
reached the top of its category. He consistently wins Best of
Class at juried competitions including Santa Fe's Indian Market,
the Heard Museum's Indian Art Show, and others. His work can
be found in the most discriminating collections.
He is a traditional carver
from the village of Shungopavi at Second Mesa. He enjoys working
on his dolls, and gets a lot of inspiration from his cultural
heritage. His wife also encourages his work and shares in the
creative process by suggesting colorful themes seen throughout
his work.