Hopi Aya "Rattle" Kachina Doll, c.1930s

This traditionally-carved Hopi kachina doll dates to the 1930s. The doll depicts Aya or Ai, the rattle kachina doll, who is easily identifiable because his mask is decorated like the dance rattles he represents. The "stitches" of the edge of the rattle replace eyes and a mouth. He has a feather plume at the top of his mask, also mimicking a traditional rattle. This example measures 12 3/4" height, and sits on a custom stand, but could also be removed for hanging on a wall.