Hopi mid-20th century Nuvay’tsina (Cactus Flower) Katsina [SOLD]

The Cactus Flower Katsina is a very rare participant in Katsina dances, having not appeared much since the late 19^th century.  He seems to be presented in doll form more than in dances.  There is a paper tag affixed to this carving that states it is the Yünga Katsina, which is the Cactus Katsina, from the village of Hotevilla, but our informant said it is the Nuvay'tsina, which is the Cactus Flower Katsina.

The katsina doll appears to be from the mid-20^th century and is in very good condition considering its age.  The toe of the left foot is chipped and the left shoulder appears to have a crack where it joins the body.  Both arms are pegged with wood to the body, a trait not often seen in 20th  century dolls but frequently used in 19^th century ones. 

Provenance: ex. coll. from a collector in the Great Lakes area

Recommended Reading: Following the Sun and Moon by Alph Secakuku