Hopi Crow Katsina Doll by Bryce Quaunahongnewa [SOLD]

This Crow Katsina doll by Bryce Quaunahongnewa is a tall and elegant version of the katsina. The tall slenderness is due to the doll being carved from a single piece of cottonwood root. The likely additions to the single piece carving are the large crow wings, the pair of feathers resting on the head, the ties around the knees, and the pair of yucca fronds. 

The intricate details are extraordinary. The fingers of each hand, the creases in the moccasins, the minute details of the necklace, and the feathers at the mask are of the finest work. The painted details, such as on the sash hanging off the right side, should not be overlooked. 

It is not unusual for a Hopi artist to make a carving of the Crow Mother Katsina, but much more unusual to see one make one of a Crow Katsina. The Crow Katsina is one of the warriors who make war on the clowns during the Plaza Dances or who appear in the Soyohim of late spring. He comes to threaten the clowns for their immoderate behavior, appearing again and again until finally he and others who have the same function descend upon the clowns and thoroughly chastise them.

Plaza Dances may be either Mixed Katsina Dances (Soyohim) where all the dancers are different types of katsinas, or a dance where all of the katsinas are the same. In either case, all of the katsinas have a definite purpose, often in addition to their primary purpose of bringing rain and fertility. Dances may be sponsored by people who wish to commemorate some special event such as the return of a son from the army, the recovery from an illness, or a child's birthday. Yet, there is still a strong element of religion present in these dances. These events are enjoyed by all, and their presentation is very dear to the hearts of all Hopis.

About the Artist: Bryce Quamahongnewa

Hailing from the Third Mesa village of Hotevilla, Bryce is celebrated for his ability to infuse fluidity and "bone-deep" character into the classic carving styles that emerged in the late 1980s. This piece is not dated but was purchased by Adobe Gallery from the carver in 1997, then sold to a client, and now we have it back from his estate.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Hopi Crow Katsina Doll by Bryce Quaunahongnewa is from the estate of the client to whom we sold it in1997.

Recommended Reading: Following the Sun and Moon: Hopi Kachina Tradition by Alph H. Secakuku  

TAGS: Katsina Dolls, Hopi Pueblo, Hopituh Shi-nu-mu, Bryce Quamahongnewa