Fine Art - Native American Paintings San Ildefonso Pueblo, Po-woh-ge-oweenge Paintings

Abel Sanchez Oqwa Pi Original Pueblo Painting

Abel Sanchez (Oqwa Pi), San Ildefonso Pueblo Painter

Category: Paintings
Origin: San Ildefonso Pueblo, Po-woh-ge-oweenge
Medium: casein on paper
Size:
10-½” Height x 13-¼” Width (image);
16-½” Height x 19-½” Width (frame)
Item # C4865I
Price: $1750

This original painting by Abel Sanchez, known by his Tewa name Oqwa Pi (Kachina Stick), is a compelling example of early Pueblo painting in the flat style taught at the Santa Fe Indian School. Created in casein applied both transparently and opaquely, the work depicts two ceremonial figures taking part in a ritual centered around bringing water from a spring.

On the left, a female figure carries an offering of cornmeal. On the right, a male dancer sings while holding a rattle and evergreen, both elements shown in accordance with traditional ceremonial practice. Consistent with the early Pueblo painting tradition, there is no ground line or background detail, allowing the focus to remain on the figures and their richly detailed clothing.

The painting is signed "Oqwa Pi" in the lower right and is presented in a wood frame with a single layer of archival matting.

Abel Sanchez (1899-1971) Oqwa Pi - Kachina Stick of San Ildefonso Pueblo began painting around 1919 and became known for his faithful depictions of Pueblo life and ceremony. He served eight terms as Governor of San Ildefonso and supported his large family through the sale of his paintings. His work was exhibited at major institutions including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, Yale University, and the Milwaukee Art Institute, where it was celebrated for its color, movement, and simplicity. This piece reflects both his artistic skill and his dedication to cultural documentation.