Hopi Cross Legged Katsina Doll by Peter Shelton

Barton Wright discusses the Huhuwa Katsina in his book Clowns of the Hopi, noting that while Huhuwa is not technically a clown, he is deeply revered for the story that surrounds him. According to Hopi oral tradition, Huhuwa is the spirit of a man from Second Mesa who suffered from a crippling illness that left him barely able to walk. Despite his physical limitations, he was known for his cheerful spirit and willingness to help others. His positive legacy was so strong that he became immortalized as a katsina. Huhuwa typically appears in pairs during ceremonies, hobbling through villages while chatting animatedly.

Wright notes that Huhuwa is likely the most frequently chosen katsina to present gifts during the Powamu ceremony. He is known for his gentle humor and often makes comical remarks, imitating village dialects and recounting funny local events. His clothing is usually ragged, appearing as though it had been salvaged from some forgotten Hopi storeroom, adding to his disarming charm.

Although not considered a clown in the traditional sense, Wright places Huhuwa within the Comic Kachina category, alongside figures such as Kokopelli, Kokopell'mana, Mastop, and Qöqöle. This grouping includes katsinas known for their humor, but not the overt ribaldry found in the antics of the Koshari.

This carving of Huhuwa is by Peter Shelton (1927-1992) Hoyesva - Wherever the Arrow Lands, was a truly multi-talented Hopi Pueblo artist, widely celebrated for his exceptional Katsina doll carvings. Beyond his renowned three-dimensional work, Shelton was also a respected and accomplished Native American painter, showcasing a versatile artistic vision that spanned multiple mediums. His legacy continues to influence and inspire within the Hopi art tradition. This piece is signed Honyesva, Peter Shelton's Hopi name.

Peter Shelton's sons Henry P. Shelton (1929- ) Ho-ya'oma - Arrow Carrying and Peter Shelton, Jr. (1920-1992) Sehaho - Yellow Arrow are also artists to include Katsina Doll carving.

Condition: very good condition with some fraying of ribbons and fabric but nothing of significance.

Provenance: This Hopi Cross Legged Katsina Doll by Peter Shelton is originally from the estate of Tom Mittler, a former resident of Michigan and Santa Fe who purchased it from The Case Trading Post, Wheelwright Museum, Santa Fe in 1985 and is now being offered through a collector of Adobe Gallery.

Reference: Clowns of the Hopi: Tradition Keepers and Delight Makers by Barton Wright

TAGS: Hopi Pueblo, Katsina Dolls, Peter Shelton, Jr., Henry Shelton