Avatshoya (White Corn) Katsina Doll [R]

The season for planting vine crops such as beans and melons is called Hakitonmuya and the season for planting corn is haki, which means “wait,” a notice to wait until warm weather to plant corn.  It is imperative in dry farming land such as at Hopi to plant at the proper time.

Early planting time is a ceremonial season for all to be involved.  Women have their chores, men theirs and even the young are assigned tasks related to the planting of crops.  The White Corn Katsina appears at this time.  He represents excellent crop yield and a bountiful harvest.

This White Corn Katsina doll has its body painted black and wears a simple loin cloth with a squash blossom painted on front and back.  A wide white and embroidered sash hangs down its back side from the waist and a traditional red and black belt is around his waist and hangs down each side.  The moccasins have embroidered bands wrapped around their tops and black yarn wrapped around his legs and one arm.  An evergreen ruff surrounds the neck and feathers top the head.  The face is painted turquoise with black hook eyes and a painted red arrow on each cheek.  He sports a brilliant red yarn mouth and elaborate square ears.  He possibly should have an ear of white corn in each hand.

Condition:  very good condition with only some minor paint abrasion on the back.  He is sloppily glued to a black pedestal which could be corrected if desired.

Provenance: from the collection of a California gentleman

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