Hopi Pueblo Cottonwood Tasap Katsina Doll [SOLD]

This Hopi Pueblo Cottonwood Tasap Katsina Doll was apparently inspired by one of the gods of the Diné of the Navajo Nation, most likely Naastadji, the Fringe-mouth God.  There are several Diné Yei gods and there are several versions of the Tasap Katsina.  This Tasap Katsina is not seen too often, but when he does appear it is usually in the Soyohim.  This Tasap is the version from Third Mesa on the Hopi Pueblo Reservation in Arizona.

The Tasap katsinam are not borrowed from the *Diné, as they are unique to the Hopi People. They have the same purpose and functions as all 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.

The katsina is wearing a bandolier across his chest, arm bands and a Diné-style kilt.  His body paint is white with a slight hint of turquoise color. The position of the arms against the body is typical of early twentieth century carvings.  

*Note: when we say Diné, as opposed to Navaho or Navajo, we are referring to the people and not the government.  Since 1969, their government refers to itself as the Navajo Nation.  

Condition: very good condition.  It is possible that the front of each foot has been replaced, however, it is possible that they were originally made in that style.

Provenance: a tag attached identifies this as from the Bartell Collection

Recommended Reading: Kachinas a Hopi Artist’s Documentary by Barton Wright with original paintings by Cliff Bahnimptewa

Relative Links: Katsina, Hopi Pueblo, Cliff Bahnimptewa, Barton Wright, Diné of the Navajo Nation