Kevin Pochoema Red Beard Long Hair Katsina Doll

This exceptional Red Beard Long Hair Katsina is a masterpiece carving by the renowned Hopi artist Kevin Pochoema. Pochoema is known as a perfectionist whose dolls capture the true, dynamic appearance of the dancers, often recalling the experience of seeing the ceremony in person. This carving showcases Pochoema's dedication to perfection. It is executed as a single-piece carving, with the only exceptions being the tall feather on the head and the items held in the Katsina's hands.

Pochoema's choice to use oil-based pigments allows him the artistic flexibility to skillfully vary colors and intensity, achieving the exact textural and visual effects required for a realistic representation of the ceremonial attire.

The proper Hopi name for this figure is Hokyan Angak'china, named for the unique and peculiar step used during its dance.

Like all variations of the Long Hair Katsina, the primary function of the Red Beard Angak'china is to bring rain-a gentle, soft rain-to help the crops grow. It is traditionally believed that these dancers seldom perform without the eventual appearance of such rain.

The Long Hair Katsina (Angak'china) is one of the most pervasive and popular of all Katsinam, appearing in almost the same form across the Pueblo world, from the Rio Grande to the Hopi Mesas. They typically appear in a group and are noted for their melodious songs, which contribute to their favorability.

They are often used for the Niman Kachina (Home-Going Ceremony) on First Mesa, sometimes appearing with the Kachina Mana. Their presence has even been documented on First Mesa in late August (outside the normal season), likely influenced by the Tewa people who do not observe a strictly closed Katsina season.

What is a Katsina? 

Condition: new

Provenance: this Kevin Pochoema Red Beard Long Hair Katsina Doll is from the artist

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

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