Zuni katsina dolls

Zuni katsina dolls are handcrafted carvings created by the Zuni Pueblo people of New Mexico to represent spirits called katsinas, which play a vital role in their religious and cultural practices. These intricately painted wooden dolls serve as teaching tools, ceremonial objects, and symbols of connection between humans and the spiritual world. Each doll embodies a specific katsina, often associated with natural elements, seasons, or ancestors. The craftsmanship reflects deep cultural traditions, with attention to detail in facial features, clothing, and symbolism, making these dolls valued both as religious artifacts and artistic expressions.