Description: Cottonwood Root | 8”h x 5”w x 3”d

Carving since the mid 1980’s, Alvin Navasie, Sr. definitely developed his own aesthetic under the tutelage of Cecil Calnimptewa. His work is recognized for its detail, workmanship and often a pop of a brighter color pallet. As some would say, he found his niche. And though this particular doll is small in stature, her grace and beauty alight.

The Butterfly Maiden (Mana) is technically not a katsina, but rather a female dancer. And though she appears masked or hooded when carved as a doll, at dances she is not. The symbolism is that of a butterfly pollinating corn and generally appears in August at the Hopi Butterfly Dance when thanks are given for a bountiful harvest.