Navajo-Style 'Long-Haired' or 'Hemis' Kachina Doll on Wood Base
Unbranded (Likely Handcrafted Native American Artisan) · Art & Decor > Native American Collectibles
Era / Decade
1990s-2010s
Material
Hand-carved wood (body/base), rabbit fur ruff, feathers, felt/suede garments, acrylic paint, plastic beads, and a molded metal-style concho belt.
Condition
Good to Very Good. The carving and paint remain vibrant. There is slight dust accumulation in the fur and some ruffling of the feathers. All hanging beads and tassels appear intact.
Demand Level
Moderate. There is a steady niche for Southwest decor and Native American art, though 'Souvenir Grade' dolls move slower than authenticated high-end artisan pieces.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 (Low) - $45.00 (Mid) - $65.00 (High)
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $85.00
Comparable Sales
Similar unsigned Navajo-style kachinas of this size (approx. 10-12 inches) typically sell for $30-$50 on eBay. Signed pieces by recognized artists can fetch $100+.
Description
Exquisite hand-carved Native American style Kachina doll featuring a ceremonial dancer motif. This piece is adorned with a plush white rabbit fur ruff, a turquoise-painted mask with geometric patterns, and real feathers embellished with turquoise-colored beads. The figure wears a dark brown suede-style kilt with vibrant zig-zag embroidery and a decorative silver-tone oval concho belt. Standing on a natural wood slab base, this doll represents high-quality southwestern folk art perfect for gallery displays or home decor.
Key Features
Highly detailed mixed media construction; real fur and feathers; vibrant color palette; significant shelf presence due to size; popular Southwestern aesthetic.
Authenticity Indicators
Confidence Level: Medium. The construction uses traditional materials like wood and fur, but the use of certain plastic beads and the style of the concho suggests a 'Souvenir' or 'Commercial' Grade kachina rather than a high-end Hopi ceremonial carving. Check the bottom of the wood base for a signature or 'Navajo' stamp.
Flaws to Note
Possible minor DNA/dust in fur; some feathers are slightly bent or frayed from storage; no visible artist signature on the base visible in photo (reduces value significantly if unsigned).
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (broadest audience), Etsy (if vintage/handmade), or Facebook Marketplace (to avoid shipping fragile feathers).
Selling Tips
Shipping is the biggest challenge; the feathers and wood base make it fragile. Use a large box and suspend it in packing peanuts so the feathers don't crush. Use keywords like 'Southwestern Decor', 'Kachina Doll', 'Hand Carved', and 'Tribal Art'. Always photograph the bottom of the base for a signature.