Hopi Konin (Supai) Katsina Doll, circa 1930s [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, Summer 2001. I strongly recommend it to anyone interested in works by Pentewa. It may be purchased directly from the publisher.

The Hopi Konin Katsina is a representation of the Hopi’s neighbors, the Havasupai Indians. There are Hopi versions of katsinam that honor and depict other tribes, such as the Navajo, Havasupai, Comanche, Zuni and other Pueblos.

This is the Hopi version of what the Havasupai katsinam might look like. These katsinam are not borrowed from the Havasupai, as they are unique to the Hopi. They have the same purpose and functions as all the Hopi Katsinam. They are messengers and/or intermediaries to the rain gods. Since they are katsinam in every respect, they are afforded the same reverence and dignity during their visits.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: from the collection of a family from Oregon