Kwewu (Wolf) Katsina by Otto Pentewa [SOLD]

Otto Pentewa (1889-1961) and Wilson Tawaquaptewa (1873-1960) were the first Hopi katsina carvers to have dolls attributed to them by name. Both carvers became famous in the 1920s-1930s and each had a very distinctive style. Collectors, with little difficulty, are able to identify the unsigned carvings of these two individuals.

There is an excellent article entitled “The Katsina Carvings of Otto Pentewa,” by Barry Walsh in American Indian Art Magazine—see Recommended Reading below. I strongly recommend it to anyone interested in works by Pentewa. It may be purchased directly from the publisher.

The Wolf Katsina appears with other animal katsinas, serving in the function of a guard. He dances in line with the other katsinas, but then at times will leave the line and move to the fringes of the dance arena insuring that nothing is bothering the other katsinas. All animal dances are prayers for rain and an abundance of game animals.

This carving is in very good condition. There is virtually nothing wrong with it except the right ear has been broken and glued. The fur is in excellent condition.