Patung (Squash) Katsina Doll [SOLD]

Note: the Hopi Pueblo Carver is Ivan Wytewa (b.1969).

The Squash Katsina is often a favorite of collectors. He appears mostly on First Mesa as a runner; however, carvers from all the mesas do make him. He also is a Chief Katsina for the Pumpkin Clan.

The carving appears to be from a single piece of cottonwood root with the exception of the pedestal, which may have been added, and the two squash blossoms in his hands and the one on his head.

The body proportions are executed to perfection. The calves, biceps and chest musculature are very natural for the body of a runner. Katsinas that are runners are generally the younger men who can sustain the exertion of a race.

The carving is in excellent condition. It was most likely made in the late 1990s. The carver is from the village of Bacavi. He is the nephew of Tom Holmes, a famous Hopi carver of katsina dolls, and who was his mentor.