Hopi Wuyak·kuita - Broadface Katsina Doll by Kevin Pochoema

This is an exquisite one-piece carving created in 2018 by Kevin Pochoema, one of the most famous contemporary Hopi Katsina carvers. This piece demonstrates why his work continues to impress.

Pochoema's dedication to precision is evident throughout. Features like the feathers on the mask, the long hair beard, the fringe on the moccasins, and the foxtail were all meticulously incised line by line. Even the animal skin draped over the shoulders shows individual hair strands scored in varied directions, perfectly simulating natural texture. The right leg, slightly raised, illustrates the dance movement with the foot slightly turned inward.

The carving is a study in dynamic realism: the musculature of the arms and legs is beautifully proportioned, and the elegantly curved wedding sash on the doll's right side illustrates a real sense of motion. Finished with expertly applied paints and stains, this doll represents the very peak of Pochoema's mature carving style.

Kevin is from the village of Bacavi at Third Mesa on the Hopi Reservation. He has garnered many awards for his carvings — in 1989-92 at O'odham Tash; 1991 Best of Class; 1992 Best Concept Carving, 1st, 3rd Inter-tribal Indian Ceremonial; 1996 1st Over 15" Katina Dolls at Museum of Northern Arizona Hopi Marketplace.

In every ceremony there are guards to prevent any transgression on the path of the kachinas. In addition, guards or Angry Kachinas were formerly used to enforce community work such as the cleaning of springs. It is to this category that the Wuyak·kuita belongs. Wuyak·kuita is most often seen bringing up the rear of the Bean Dance Procession or circling wide at the sides. He is the one who moves toward the clowns and absolutely terrifies them. (Wright, 1973. 26)

What is a Katsina? 

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Hopi Wuyak·kuita - Broadface Katsina Doll by Kevin Pochoema was purchased by Adobe Gallery from Kevin Pochoema in 2018, then sold to a client from whose estate we have it back to sell again.

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

TAGS: Hopi Pueblo,  Kachina - Katsina Doll, Kevin Pochoema