Brian Honyouti (1947-2016) 11.75" Tunei-nili Hopi Carved Cottonwood Kachina Doll

This exceptional Tunei-nili Kachina doll is a masterpiece carved by the renowned Hopi artist Brian Honyouti (this is the best we could determine via internet research since it is not signed by the carver except for Tunei-nili which seems to be attributed to Brian Honyouti).

Standing at an impressive 11.75 inches tall, this one-piece carving (except for base, fox tail, hair, feathers, and implements) is meticulously crafted from cottonwood root and showcases Honyouti's unparalleled skill and attention to detail. Kachina dolls are intricately carved figurines representing spiritual beings from the Hopi culture. The Tunei-nili kachina specifically represents a spiritual messenger.

The Tunei-nili, a Navajo-derived Kachina, is depicted with a determined gaze, with one hand reaching upward. The flowing kilt and fox tail add to the lifelike characterization of this piece. Honyouti's flair for the natural is evident in the muted colors, contrasted sharply with bright turquoise and blue hues that bring the figure to life.

Approx. Size: 11-3/4" T x 5-1/2" W x 4-7/8" D
Approx. Weight: 7.4 ozs

Sold as is. No warranty from the Seller. No Returns.

CONDITION NOTE: Used, but in very good vintage condition. This piece does not appear to have any chips, cracks (except in the front of the base which is a natural cracking of the wood), hairlines, or repairs that I can see, except there is a missing implement from his right hand and a broken  off piece of the fox tail hanging on the back of the kachina (see pictures). This Katsina has beautiful colors (see pictures). Since these are vintage pieces of art, they do come with natural imperfections and discolorations that add to their character (zoom into photos to look for any imperfections), and there may be some signs of wear or age that are typical for an item of its age. Does not come with any original boxes, packaging, or any related paperwork. Will be packed carefully and insured for safe shipping. See detailed (zoom-able) pictures to know what you are purchasing.

SHIPPING NOTE: Katsina dolls are fragile by nature and may be broken in transit. I will do my best to pack it efficiently and carefully, however due to their fragility, transit damage may be unavoidable in some cases. Please keep this in mind when purchasing katsina dolls online for shipping. Luckily, katsina dolls do not decrease in value when repaired and can usually be repaired in the comfort of your home using a mixture of wood and super glue for smaller, clean breaks. For more extensive repairs from transit damage, contact an expert.

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Source of product research for this listing was from Perplexity.ai and I cannot be sure that it is 100% accurate. I encourage you to confirm this information with your own research.
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Release Date or Age of Item
This Kachina doll was likely carved in the late 20th or early 21st century, as Brian Honyouti was an active carver from the 1960s until his passing in 2016.

Brian Honyouti: Renowned Hopi Katsina Carver
Brian Honyouti (born 1947) is a highly respected Hopi artist and katsina carver from the village of Shungopavi on Second Mesa in Arizona. He comes from a family with a long tradition of carving and is part of the prestigious Honyouti carving lineage.

Family Tree and Artistic Legacy
Brian Honyouti learned the art of katsina carving from his father, the renowned carver Wilfred Honyouti. His grandfather was also a skilled carver named Fred Honyouti. The Honyouti family has produced many talented artists over multiple generations, keeping the traditional Hopi carving techniques alive.

Brian's son Ronald Honyouti (Ron Honyouti) has followed in his father's footsteps and is also an accomplished katsina carver and painter. Ron learned the craft from his father Brian and continues the family's artistic legacy.

Artistic Style and Achievements
Brian Honyouti is known for his intricate and highly detailed katsina carvings that accurately depict the spiritual beings from Hopi mythology. His works are prized by collectors and have been exhibited in numerous museums and galleries across the United States.

Honyouti's carvings are characterized by their precise proportions, intricate designs, and vibrant colors. He uses traditional materials such as cottonwood root and natural pigments, adhering to the authentic Hopi carving techniques passed down through generations.

In recognition of his artistic excellence, Brian Honyouti has received numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair and Market Award for Best of Show in Sculpture.
Honyouti's works, along with those of his father Wilfred and son Ron, have played a significant role in preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Hopi people through their exceptional katsina carvings.

Search Keywords
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NOTE: If you would like to see all the vintage artwork I currently have listed, please check out this eBay Store category to watch for more pieces being added over the coming weeks/months: https://www.ebay.com/str/quantumonlinesalesservices/Artwork/_i.html?store_cat=43288705011