Hopi Pottery Figurine of a Katsina Vessel [SOLD]

Only the artist knew the significance of this figurine but we can speculate his intent as he created it. The Katsina face and tableta, of course, represent the Hopi supernatural beings—bringers of rain and all things needed by the people. The voluminous body, open to the elements, is available to accept the bounty being provided to the Hopi by the Katsinas. The tableta is a separate piece of pottery that slips into a slot on the head. Both sides of the tableta are painted and either side can be displayed forward.

Jacob Myron Koopee passed away in the summer of 2011 at the early age of 41 years. He was the grandson of Marie Koopee, great-grandson of Nellie Nampeyo and great great grandson of Nampeyo of Hano. He was at the height of his career and had received many awards for his pottery. He was accepted as one of the finest of contemporary Hopi potters. His is a great loss to collectors.

Condition: The figurine is in original excellent condition.

Provenance: ex. coll. Minnesota collector of fine pueblo pottery

Recommended Reading: There is a two-page spread of Koopee in Hopi-Tewa Pottery 500 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf.