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. |  | |
This Butterfly Maiden Katsina is a very special and delicate piece. The movement shown is wonderful and the colors are a great combination. It stands 16 inches tall and the base measures 5 inches deep.
This Katsina is made of one piece of Cottonwood root. It is signed Honawa. It stands 10 inches tall.
This Badger katchina was made by Tayron Polequaptewa. He is from Second Mesa. The badger is the curer, providing herbal medicine. Also he is a messenger for rain. This piece measures 12 inches tall.
This is the Hopi Male Katsina dancer. The headdress is less ornate in comparison to the female Katsina. It stands 15 inches.
Chester's Katsinas are always made with care and precision. This Roadrunner Katsina has corn husk earrings and a wonderful heshi necklace. It stands 13 inches tall.
This Knifewing is made out of cottonwood root. It has real feathers as ornament and real turquoise earrings and necklace. It stand 15 inches tall.
This Crow Katsina doll can stand upright on it's two feet and can also be hung with the cotton string which is attached to it. It stands 11 1/2 inches.
The soft tones of this Katsina is beautiful. It is made with leather and shell and stands 13 inches.
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.
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.
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.
