Katsinas
On a series of mesas in Northern Arizona, the Hopi people have lived for centuries. The men of these mesas have, since their people began, carved wooden dolls, or likenesses, of the sacred spirits, the Katsinas. These dolls were originally carved, as they are today, to instruct the children of the tribe in the ways of the Hopi religion. The women are not allowed to take part in the kiva and dance ceremonies where the men lend their bodies to the spirit of the Katsinas, dress as the spiritual beings and perform exact dances that have been passed down for centuries to bring blessings to the people. For an article written by Chester Poleyestewa, a Hopi carver, about these original dolls, click here.
Today, Katsina dolls are also carved as works of art. Some of the Navajo people have taken up this art and embellish their dolls with feathers and leather. Generally the Hopi carve their dolls from a single piece of cottonwood root, the tree whose roots always search for water, a rare and special commodity in Hopi land. The spelling of the word "Katsinas" (Katcinas, Kachinas) has been disputed for many years, but the Hopi prefer the spelling "Katsinas." Therefore, except when otherwise titled by the artist or an author, we will use the spelling "Katsinas."
The following are only a few of the Katsinas we currently show in the gallery. If you are looking for a special carving or the work of a particular artist, please let us know and we will do our best to find the perfect piece for you. |  | |
Mr. Fred has been carving for over 25 years and has won numerous awards. He comes from a very large carving family. His interpretations of particular Katsinas tend to be extremely detailed. This piece stands 11 1/2 inches.
This Butterfly Katsina is made of cottonwood. It stands 9 1/2 inches tall and is signed I. Jojola.
Wendell is the son of Dennis Ross and creates beautiful Katsinas. The deep carvings and body structure of this Katsina are beautiful. This piece stands 12 inches tall.
The Red Tail Hawk is known for it's ability to see the overall picture. It soars high above to give that perspective. It is also seen as messenger, visionary, and protector. This beautiful piece is incredibly detailed and stands 17 inches tall.
Neal David Sr. has been carving all of his life. This beautifully detailed Eagle Dancer Katchina is different from his usual Clown Katchinas. This piece stands 12 inches tall.
Featured is a Hemis Kachina that comes with the original selling tag. The tag has Second Mesa Arizona Crafts on it with artist Name, Date made 1985 and the original selling price of $385.00. This Jemez borrowed dancer is the first kachina to bring mature corn to the people, indicating that the corn crop is assured.
Ogre Kachina – There are two main varieties. The Black Ogre (Nata-aska) and The White Ogre (Wiharu). Children are taught that the Ogre will get them if they are not good.
Deer Kachina: The Deer Kachina is much like all game animals and dances to bring more of his kind. The staff that is held in both hands represents the front legs of the Deer. Deer provided food and skins for clothing and they are seen in many petroglyphs as well as fetishes used by shaman in many tribes.
Julius Grey is Navajo Kachina carver that creates these miniature dolls. An amazing feature is that these little carvings have masks that are removable! Call to see which Katsina dancers we have in stock.
Shown is the Supai Katsina by Hopi carver, Chester Poleyestewa. He carves only the old-style katsinas in cottonwood root, which can be hung on the wall. This Supai has detailed painting on the sash and a lovely natural turquoise necklace.
Wu-Utii-Maua Katchina. Chester Poleyestewa has recently brought a new collection to us at the gallery. Shown is Grandmother Katsina also known as Happy Mother and the Mother of all the Katsinas. Beautifully carved, painted with a delicate palette of natural pigments and decorated with feathers. She is sweet and smiling, and stands 11 inches tall.
Qoqole Katchina arrives in December, to "open" up the Kivas for the other Katsinas. This dancer has a spruce bough neck piece and bird wings as part of his mask. A rattle in one hand and a dance stick in the other. He is meant to be hung on the wall.
Zuni Katsina from the 1970's, is called Na-Ha-Liso. Hopi are best known for their Katsina dolls, but the dolls are also created by the Navajo and Zuni. Each tribe has their own styles, as do the different time periods. This colorful dancer is created out of wood, felt, yarn, paint and leather.
Heoto Mana Kachina is a guard katsina that protects and oversees important rituals. The fearsome appearance with the tongue sticking out and large headdress, gives her the power to protect. The mask is removable.
Miniature wolf Katsina has a removable mask. Standing 1 1/4 inches on a natural bark stand. Call us about other dancers we may have in the gallery.
Wonderful old style wall Katsina, carved out of wood and painted with pigments. The spruce bough neck piece is made from yarn. Measuring 8 inches tall.
The humorous side of the Hopi dances are brought to life by the clowns or Kashari and the Kaisale. Chester has created this mischievous and funny "Yellow Clown", that is wearing a straw hat, fur for hair, and has his gift sashon his waist and fetish pouch around his neck. Sure to make one smile and a great addition to the Chester collector. This Katsina hangs 10 inches tall.
Shown are front and back views of a lovely Butterfly Mana by Hopi carver, Harry Bert. This katsina is made entirely of cottonwood root and is 28 inches tall.
Titled "Corn Boy" this Harry Bert Katsina doll stands 11 and 1/2 inches tall. Carved all from a single piece of cottonwood and hand colored. Harry likes leave some of the natural wood showing, so we can see the grain of the tree.
