Hopi c.1940s Black Ogre Kachina, Nataska Katsina Doll

The Majestic Ogre Katsina: An 80-Year-Old Hopi Symbol of Discipline

Standing at an imposing height of almost two feet, the Ogre Katsina doll is a sight to behold. This figure, both awe-inspiring and intimidating, is designed to instill fear in children with its elongated snout and the threat of devouring them. Its menacing eyes, coupled with a knife in its right hand and a saw in its left, serve as stark reminders of the consequences of misbehavior.

The Ogre Katsina doll is adorned in a full ensemble of fabric clothing. A vibrant red sash encircles his waist, and a leather bandolier is draped across his chest. A large leather cape cascades from his back, adding to his formidable appearance. Horse hair, hanging over his eyes and trailing down his back, enhances his fearsome visage. The fur ruff around his neck, though deteriorating, could be transformed into a skin ruff by removing the hair. The upright feathers crowning his head show signs of damage, bearing testament to his age and use.

These large-scale dolls were often showcased in roadside sales facilities such as gas stations, rest stops, and restaurants. They served as intriguing curiosities for tourists journeying along Route 66, enticing them to purchase these unique souvenirs.

Despite being 80 years old, this Katsina doll retains its magnificence. Signs of age are visible, but they merely add to his character, enhancing his status as a legendary Hopi figure of discipline for children. His enduring presence serves as a fascinating link to Hopi traditions and cultural practices.

Barton Wright's Kachinas: A Hopi Artist's Documentary provides a description of Nataska's appearance and function:

"The fearsome Nataska always come as a pair. They accompany the Soyoko on their collection trip and usually stand directly behind the member of their crew who is bargaining with the relatives of the children. They make horrible noises, dragging their saws along the side of the house or on the ground. All the while, they keep up a steady stamping that makes the turtle-shell rattles on their legs sound ominously. They are supposed to be able to eat a child whole; from the very earliest age, the child has heard stories of these monsters—how they would descend on children playing near the village and haul them away to cook and eat. So, it is no wonder that the children are petrified at their actual appearance... The feather fan is made of turkey feathers placed close together to form a large mass behind the head that makes the figures appear much taller and broader."

What is a Kachina?

Condition: as described above

Provenance: this Hopi c.1940s Black Ogre Kachina, Nataska Katsina Doll is from the collection of a client of Adobe Gallery

Reference: Wright, Barton. Kachinas: A Hopi Artist's Documentary, Northland Press, 1973.

TAGS: Kachina – Katsina Doll, Hopi Pueblo