This is an original cottonwood root carved mouse warrior kachina dating to the 1970's from the Sundog Bruce VanLandingham collection. The "Warrior Mouse" is not a katsina but is a Hopi legend loved by the young and old alike. According to legend, a Hopi village was being threatened by a bothersome old hawk. He was eating all the village chickens. Everyone knew he must be killed but no one knew how, in came the Warrior Mouse. The piece shows original paint, has its two ears repaired, knife on one had was repaired, the other hand is missing a tool with other wear. The bottom a tag marked, "03 / 06 - 78". Provenance: From the renowned Sundog Fine Art Bozeman, Montana collection and acquired by Bruce VanLandingham. Bruce VanLandingham was a pillar in the American Indian collecting community and a respected expert. Along with being an avid collector Bruce also was the sole owner of Sundog Fine Art Gallery in Bozeman which was both part museum and gallery. The mouse is wearing a silver (not tested) and turquoise ring. Measures 9.25"H by 4.25"W by 4 5/8"D.