Ahöla Katsina Doll

For the Hopi and some other Pueblo groups, katsinas are supernatural beings who represent the life force or quintessence of an object or thing. As invisible forces, katsinas manifest themselves in the natural world through a multitude of physical forms and natural phenomena. These are given reality in the villages through their appearance in masked ceremonials and dances. They are also visualized through carved figures known as katsina dolls, which are presented to young girls during the dances. Since the late 19th century, great numbers have been created for the outside market as well. This venerable katsina reflects the original splendor of the painted mask with its broad, fanning headdress of eagle feathers. Ahöla represents Alosaka, one of the germ gods who control the growth and reproduction of all things.