This doll representing a Shalako Mana Kachina dates to the 1800-1850 period and is one of the oldest known kachina dolls. It is in the collection of the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff.  Early historic kachina dolls were painted with mineral and vegetal-based paints which gave subdued colors subject to fading.  Modern dolls are typically painted with acrylic paints which give bright, long-lasting colors. (Photo by author)
 

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