Ros George
White Bear
Parker Collection
13" H
with 1 1/4" base
The White Bear depicted here
is a Hon Kachin, but is more properly described as Köcha
Honau.
"The Bear Kachina is
of such great strength that it is felt he can cure the sick.
He appears in the kachina return or Soyal of First Mesa as the
watchman or side dancer for the Chakwaina.
He may come singly or in a
group during the Palölökong Dance, and may appear
in a number of colors such as Sakwa Honau (Blue Bear)
or as illustrated - Köcha Honau (White Bear). Probably
he is most familiar in the Mixed Kachina Dance, dancing outside
the lines.
His most distinctive feature
is the presence of a bear footprint on either cheek."
-Barton Wright, Kachinas: a Hopi
Artist's Documentary (114)
Ros George is another prolific
kachina carver whose work can be found in only the most descriminating
collections. As an award-winning carver, he focuses primarily
on pieces for his shows and long list of buyers from around the
world.
Ros is featured in "Hopi
Kachina Dolls and their Carvers" by Theda Bassman. His story
is a compelling one. He started with animal figures, but has
become well known for a variety of unique and complex carvings.
Ros took on his father's name,
prefering it over his given name, Amos, after his father passed.
He now signs with a "Circle R."
Here, the White Bear stands
with perfect posture, balance, and proportion. Ros' carvings
always have a unique and distinct characteristic that sets them
apart from the rest. This piece is no exception.
Many collectors look at the
snout of the bear to determine the quality of detail. If the
teeth have been carved in an open mouth versus a closed mouth,
that says a lot for the skill of the carver.
If you're looking to add a
classic example by one of the living-masters - here's your chance.
This piece is a nice representation of the work of Ros George.
This is an earlier piece which
comes from a private collection. The carver has signed "Amos
George."
