Percy Sandy (Kai-Sa) “Zuni’s New and Old God of War”

This painting by Zuni artist Kai-Sa (active mid-20th century) is an evocative depiction of Zuni Katsina (Kachina) figures in a ceremonial context. Rather than showing the dancers in full costume, the artist has focused on the spiritual essence of the figures, depicting them as stylized wooden slats or masks emerging from behind a stone altar or wall.

​The primary subjects are representations of Zuni Katsinas, specifically those associated with the Shalako ceremony or winter solstice rituals.

Notice the faces are divided into two colors — red and blue. In Zuni cosmology, this dualism frequently represents the balance between different forces, such as the rain/clouds and the earth, or specific cardinal directions.

​The stepped, "cloud-altar" style headpieces on two of the carvings, and the long, thin vertical projections on three of the carvings represent lightning and rain-bearing clouds — central themes in Zuni prayer.

​The figures are painted to resemble wood grain, suggesting they represent tihu (carved dolls) or ceremonial slats used on altars rather than live dancers. The figures are positioned behind a stacked stone structure, which likely represents a shrine or altar located in the village or a sacred site in the surrounding landscape.

​In the background, the faint outlines of mesas and sandstone formations (likely Dowa Yalanne or Corn Mountain) ground the scene in the specific geography of Zuni, New Mexico.

​Scattered at the base are feathers and prayer sticks (pahos). In Zuni tradition, feathers are used to carry prayers to the ancestors and the spirits to ensure moisture and a bountiful harvest.

​Kai-Sa's style is part of the broader Studio Style or "flatstyle" tradition of Native American painting that emerged in the early-to-mid 20th century. It emphasizes minimalist backgrounds with a focus on symbolic detail, and the use of watercolor or gouache for soft, translucent layers.

​The painting inspires a sense of reverence and quietude, focusing on the spiritual atmosphere rather than a literal "action" scene.

​This painting is ultimately an expression of intercession — a visual representation of the communication between the Zuni people and the spirit world through prayer and ritual.

What is a Katsina?

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Percy Sandy (Kai-Sa) "Zuni's New and Old God of War" is from the collection of a client of Adobe Gallery

Recommended Reading: Southwest Indian Painting: a changing art by Clara Lee Tanner

TAGS: Zuni Pueblo, Taos, Diné of the Navajo Nation, Native American Paintings, Pop Chalee Hopi Pueblo, Apache, Percy Sandy, Kachina-Katsina Dolls