Kachina Dolls

by W. Ben (Walter Ben) Hunt

"Kachina Dolls" by W. Ben Hunt is a practical guidebook published in the mid-20th century, specifically during the 1950s. This book falls under the category of a craft manual, focusing on the art of creating Kachina dolls, which are significant cultural symbols among the Hopi people of Arizona. The narrative intertwines the cultural significance of these dolls with instructions for whittling and painting them, making it not only informative but also a hands-on craft book. In "Kachina Dolls," W. Ben Hunt delves into the rich tradition of the Hopi tribe, explaining the Kachina cult's spiritual and ceremonial aspects. He describes Kachina dolls as both educational toys and cherished cultural artifacts, imparting knowledge of Kachina names and their attributes to young girls. The book provides detailed guidance for crafting these dolls, including materials, techniques, and painting methods. Hunt emphasizes the importance of using traditional materials such as cottonwood roots and offers practical tips to achieve authenticity in both design and color. With a combination of cultural insights and crafting instructions, the book serves as an engaging resource for those interested in Native American art and craftsmanship.