Large hand-carved Zuni katsina doll by Ben Seciwa of Zuni, New Mexico, identified on the underside of the original wood base as:
“Zuni
Blue Warrior
Whip Dancer
By-Ben Seciwa
Zuni, N.M.”
This substantial figure measures approximately 11–12 inches tall including the base and features an especially bold turquoise-blue body with elaborate mixed-media decoration.
The figure has a painted blue mask and body, dramatic black yarn collar, multicolored carved head elements, turquoise-chip and glass-bead chest ornament, additional turquoise-chip wrist decoration, white sash, and a detailed felt textile garment with black geometric designs and multicolor accents. Red, green, black and white yarn tassels decorate the lower garment and ankles.
Mounted on a thick natural wood base, this piece has strong visual presence and displays very well.
Details
- Artist: Ben Seciwa
- Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico
- Subject: Blue Warrior / Whip Dancer
- Approximately 11–12" tall including base
- Hand-carved and hand-painted wood
- Natural wood base
- Turquoise-chip decoration
- Glass beadwork
- Felt and yarn textile elements
- Artist/title/location handwritten on underside
Condition
Good vintage/pre-owned condition with age-appropriate wear.
Visible condition details include:
- Scattered paint rubbing, small scratches and surface marks to the turquoise-painted body and arms
- Some lighter rubbed areas and small paint losses visible on the hands/forearms
- Minor wear to painted head elements
- Black yarn collar remains full but shows expected fuzzing and stray fibers
- Felt garments show light pilling, lint and age-related surface wear
- White felt sash has minor discoloration and edge wear
- Yarn tassels show mild fraying and age-related fuzzing
- Turquoise-chip and bead decoration appears substantially intact
- Lower felt skirt remains intact with strong geometric decoration
- Natural wood base shows normal age/use wear and surface variation
- No obvious major structural break, missing limb or significant crack visible in the supplied photographs
Because this is a handmade mixed-media piece incorporating wood, yarn, felt, beads and stone, some irregularities and age-related wear are expected.
Please review all photographs carefully, as they are part of the condition description.
A colorful and substantial signed example of Ben Seciwa’s Zuni katsina work, with particularly strong turquoise-chip, bead and textile decoration.1st Photo is edited and enhanced to show detail. Please note this is not an accurate depiction and you should refer to other photos.
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