Rare 24" Vintage Hopi Polik Mana (Butterfly Maiden) Katsina - Authentic Cottonwood Root.
Standing at an impressive and highly collectible 24" tall, this spectacular vintage Hopi Polik Mana (Butterfly Maiden) Katsina. It features a beautiful, historic surface decorated with traditional, chalky water-based pigments showing authentic, soft age wear and honest handling rubs. 
This Doll represents a Palhik Mana (Butterfly Maiden) or Sa'lakwmana (Salako Maiden). She is a water and a fertility spirit characterized by her headdress. Measures 24"H x 16.5"W x 6"D. Unsigned.

Condition: This carving is structurally stable and features a prominent, continuous vertical surface seasoning check on its front side.

The natural grain separation originates at the bottom of the kilt, travels straight up through the center of the torso (passing down the right side of the chest sash), and finishes through the center of the chin and face.

This is a single, naturally occurring shrinkage line following the wood grain. It is not a post-carving break, it has never been severed, and there are absolutely no glue or structural repairs. The doll is completely solid, one-piece, and stable.

Given the immense, 24-inch scale of this solid cottonwood root log, this type of checking is a classic and expected characteristic of the natural aging process. It serves as an exceptional hallmark of true vintage material authenticity. The large, beautifully painted tablita (headpiece) remains fully intact and structurally secure. See photos. 

Condition Guide: We list damage, repairs, and wear that we are aware of in each listing. No mention of condition does not necessarily mean the Lot is free of issues. Please view the images as part of the description and if necessary, request a condition report. Below is a general definition of how we rate items. 
Excellent: Condition is well above what would be expected for a previously owned item. Never worn, or New with tags. No apparent manufacturing flaws. etc.
Very good condition: Well kept, respectfully handled with slight to no wear and tear. May have a minor flaw. For example, a tiny glaze pop, a few surface scuffs to the underside of a base.
Good condition: No major issues, normal minor wear for age and normal use.
Generally good condition: A single item may have a named flaw . One or more items in a group lot or set may have described and/or photographed issue/s. For example: chip in dinnerware, missing rhinestone/s in costume jewelry group lot.
Fair Condition: Multiple issues but in our opinion, worth salvaging. Repairs and/or major issues will be detailed in the text and the worst shown in images.
Poor Condition: The lot shouldn't be there. Please notify us.