Large Hopi Tasap Yeibichai Katsina Doll [SOLD]

According to Barton Wright, "The Grandfather of the Navajo Kachina is one of the more enjoyable features of the Navajo Kachina Dance.  He does not speak but pantomimes whatever he wants.  He starts the dance, acting as a leader in both singing and dancing.  His dance step is an exaggeration, and a very lively one, that may be interspersed with a comic action such as the request for food—mountains of food. All of these requests are done in pantomime that bring laughter to the audience." 

The main body of the carving is from a single piece of cottonwood root.  The arms, ears, spray of feathers and items in the hands are added.  It appears that the carving pre-dates the 1950s.

Condition:  The fan of feathers behind the head has been split and glued back together, the item in the right hand is broken off, and the foxtail down the back has been broken and glued, none of which is immediately obvious or detracting from this great carving.

Provenance: To be provided to purchaser