Original Painting “Zuni Fire Maker” [SOLD]

The Zuni Shulawitsi Katsina is almost an exact duplicate of the Hopi Kokosori, but he is not related to Kokosori.  A young boy who is innocent and pure of heart usually performs him. He carries a fire stick, signifying his responsibility as caretaker of one of the important physical elements of the universe: fire. He is responsible for lighting fires before the Shalako ceremony prior to the winter solstice. The lighting of these fires is the signal for the Shalako to begin their ritual.

The Fire God is the black Katsina with colorful polka dots.  The other person is the Rain Priest.  The detail achieved by Kai-Sa is well beyond most paintings of this style.  Each polka dot is precise.  The skin tone of the assistant is smooth and evenly applied.  This is certainly among the finest paintings by Kai-Sa.

Condition: appears to be in original condition

Provenance: from a Santa Fe resident who was presented it as a Christmas gift in 1956

Recommended Reading:  Classic Hopi and Zuni Kachina Figures by Barton Wright