Hopi Silkafnagoing’taqa (Cornhusk Ruff Whipper) [SOLD]

This is an early 1940s Hopi carving of a Whipper katsina whose name derives from the cornhusk ruff around his neck. The doll was exceptionally well carved, appearing to be all from a single piece of cottonwood root, with the exception of the appendages such as arms, horns, eyes, and beard. The long torso, long skirt and short legs are indicators of its age, as is the casein or tempera paints.

Both horns have been broken and glued. Otherwise, he shows normal wear for a doll of this age.

This katsina appears as a guard during the Bean Dance Parade or Procession on Second and Third Mesas. He has not appeared on First Mesa since the beginning of the 20th century.