KACHINA DOLLS Identification Book ‘Hopi Indian Kachina Dolls’ By Oscar Branson

Description

This listing is for a Very Fine copy of Hopi Indian Kachina Dolls written by Oscar T. Branson.
Editorial Reviews
From Library Journal
More than just dolls, kachinas are symbolic representations of spirits, gods, and natural forces. These powers become accessible to the Hopi people through embodiment in carved figures or when re-created through costume and dance. Unfortunately, this guide by Branson ( In dian Pueblo Coloring Book , Treasure Chest, 1984; Indian Jewelry Making , Treasure Chest, 1979) for collecting the traditional dolls falls short. He describes a large number of kachinas but arranges them by a confusing code, and the accompanying color sketches are amateurish. A better book for collectors is Barton Wright's Hopi Kachinas: The Complete Guide to Collecting Kachina Dolls (Northland Pr., 1977). Wright's book covers general collecting advice, ignored by Branson, with the needed color photos. This is not recommended.
- Karen Ellis, Victoria P.L., Tex.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Review
Oscar Branson's Hopi Indian Kachina Dolls showcases over 300 authentically drawn and colored sketches of kachina dolls. There are illustrations of the types of masks, body paint, clothing, moccasins, tabletas, jewelry, articles used and carried, and the meaning of the symbols used on masks and kachina bodies. As an extra value enhancement, Branson has given carte blanche permission for the color sketches in Hopi Indian Kachina Dolls to copied, reproduced, enlarged, reduced and printed by the people of the Hopi Nation, teachers, schools, students, hobbyists, and others for any use other than publication. Hopi Indian Kachina Dolls is an impressive, exceptional, unique, and invaluable addition to any academic or public library Native American cultural reference shelf. --
Midwest Book Review