Hopi Action Style Deer (Sowi-ing) Katsina Doll [SOLD]

It is believed by the Hopi that Katsinas embody the spirits of living things and the spirits of ancestors who have died and become a part of nature. It is believed that Katsinas possess powers over nature. Katsinas are personated by men of the village and, in doing so, they become the supernatural with all the powers associated with the supernatural Katsinas. As supernatural beings, they may cure disease, grow corn, bring clouds and rain and reinforce discipline and order in the Hopi world.

Animal Katsinas, in addition to possessing those functions, have the power to strengthen the chance of abundant animals for hunting season. Hunting animals for the Hopi is not a sport but a necessity for provisions for the winter. There are Katsinas representing Deer, Antelope, Rams and other hunt animals. This doll carving represents the Deer Katsina.

The Deer Katsina is one of the very popular Plaza Dance participants. Usually when he appears, a Wolf or Mountain Lion Katsina, as a side dancer, accompanies him. The Deer Katsina has power over rain, and, when he dances, it is a prayer for increase of deer.

Presumably the first Deer Katsinas were brought from the prehistoric village of Awatowi, which may be correct as they retain a strong Rio Grande appearance.

The position that this katsina usually assumes, when he dances, is that of bending forward at the waist, as he is depicted in this carving. This Katsina doll pre-dates the advent of acrylic paints in the 1960s. It appears to date from the period of pre-World War II, probably the early 1940s. The doll stands firmly without use of support.

In the standing position presented, the height is 11 inches from table top to the tip of the antler.  If measured along the curve of the body, the doll would be 14 inches.  This is an exceptional carving that presents the Katsina as would be seen at a plaza dance.

Condition: excellent condition after having some repairs made by a professional conservator

Provenance: this Hopi Action Style Deer (Sowi-ing) Katsina Doll is from a family member of a former Indian art gallery in Santa Fe

Reference: Kachinas: a Hopi Artist’s Documentary by Barton Wright with original paintings by Cliff Bahnimptewa