Neil David Painting of the One Horn War Chief

This painting is titled "One Horn War God" in documentation but there is no reference to where the name originated for this work. The Hopi One Horn God is named Kwanitaqa, and he is delegated to guard the gate to the Hopi underword, where the departed spirits go, and directs the souls on two paths, one for righteous people and one for the evil people. He is a kind God and helped the Hopis come from the underworld. There is no mention of it being referred to as a War God. [Colton 1959:79]

This original painting by Neil David, Sr. (Hopi-Tewa, b. 1944) showcases his signature blend of traditional Hopi iconography and modern modernist composition. The piece depicts two stylized ceremonial dancers in profile. They are positioned atop a sweeping, curved arch filled with geometric pottery motifs — drawing heavily from prehistoric Sikyatki and ancestral Hopi ceramic designs.

David uses a warm, earth-toned wash with layered circular background halos and fine line work. The figures wear traditional kilt garments with woven sash motifs, feather headpieces, and classic Hopi bodily adornments.

Signature and Date: The detail highlights his distinct stylized monogram signature (N DAVID) accompanied by -77, confirming it was executed during his pivotal period in the mid-1970s. Paintings from this specific 1970s timeframe are particularly notable as they reflect the peak collaborative energy of the group before David became widely recognized for his Koshare (clown) Katsina doll carvings.

The Artist Hopid group was formed in 1973 with Neil David and Michael Kabotie, Terrance Talaswaima, Milland Lomakema, and Delbridge Honanie. The  movement aimed to reinterpret traditional Hopi symbols, philosophy, and history through contemporary fine art media while maintaining cultural integrity.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Neil David Painting of the One Horn War Chief is from the collection of a client from California.

Recommended Reading and Reference: Broder, Patricia Janis. Hopi Painting: The World of the Hopis, Brandywine Press, New York. 1978

TAGS: Hopi Pueblo, Michael Kabotie, Terrance Talaswaima, Neil David, Sr., Native American Painting, Milland Lomakema