Percy Sandy Kai-sa “New & Old Gods of War”

This painting by Zuni artist Percy Sandy (Kai-Sa) is an evocative depiction of Zuni Katsina 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 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 face of one is divided into two colors — red and white. 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 two others 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.There are no background buildings, indicating that these are located away from the village. 

​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 of the Santa Fe Indian School 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.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Percy Sandy Kai-sa "New & Old Gods 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