Katchina dolls are carved from cottonwood root. The cottonwood tree grows relatively well in the arid territory of the Pueblo Indians. Its root is dense and soft, making it easy to carve and able to withstand cracks as it dries. Dolls are traditionally carved in secret by katchina dancers. However, as the demands of modern katchina doll collectors have increased, more and more katchina dolls are now carved by “artists” and not necessarily by the dancers. This particular katchina was purchased, around 1950, in an Indian crafts store in New York City. It stands approximately 11 ½ inches high, with the feathers on the headdress adding another two inches to its height. Other items of the Southwest on display include additional katchina dolls, arrow points, basketry, and fine examples of pottery.