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Route 66 katsinas
Here is a brief guide on what constitutes a real Route 66 kachina. If you are new to these fun little collectibles, there may be some helpful information for you here.
In my other guides, I've gone on at great length about what makes an authentic Hopi kachina (pronounced katsina in Hopi). I've also tried to educate people about the many types of fakes being sold--either the furry folk-art Navajo dolls or the growing number of dolls made to deceive the unwary buyer. Unfortunately, a whole new type of fake is now emerging, being called Route 66 kachinas by their sellers, but actually imitating larger, antique dolls; these fakes are neither of vintage age nor of any collectible value.
The small, simple vintage kachinas known as "Route 66 kachinas" were made for sale in trading posts and other tourist stops throughout the Southwest. There are two basic kinds--the authentic Hopi dolls that, while very simple, still show the proper face and other design elements, and a non-Hopi type that is recognizable for its blocky appearance, bright colors, and puffy feather-on-top.
Each of these distinctive styles has its charms, as you can see; and both are still being made today. George Pooley and his family have made a kind of specialty of the Hopi dolls--they are a great way to get a start in learning about authentic kachinas and start a collection at a reasonable price. The little block dolls are just plain fun--real vintage ones are going for $20 to $25, so have appreciated significantly from their original prices. However, since they are pretty indistinguishable from the new versions, one must be careful. As I always advise, buying the real Hopi deal will protect your investment.
Now, as to the big fakes. Please don't fall for descriptions like "very nice handcarved Rte. 66 Hopi kachina" -- one Ebay seller in particular is flooding the market with these things, although I have noticed them entering the secondary market as people try to recoup their money. They look like this:
Anyone familiar with the correct facial features, regalia, and colors of real Hopi kachinas will see that these bear no resemblance. Yet even as "Route 66" dolls they are not appropriate. Do not bid your hard-earned money on items that are being made to deceive you. Tourist collectibles take many forms, and trading post items can be great fun--they remind us of a nostalgic time and a golden age of road trips. Keep the fun alive and invest in the real thing!
