Hopi Pong (Mountain Sheep) Katsina Doll [SOLD]

This is an outstanding Hopi Pong (Mountain Sheep) katsina doll, hand-carved from cottonwood root and decorated with oil-based stains and acrylic paints. This is one of the more compelling figures we have had the opportunity to handle. It is a powerful figure of well-defined musculature with superlative detailing in the impressive headdress and massive horns. Of note is the natural wood coloration of the body and kilt, highlighting the use of polychrome coloration against this neutral ground. The figure holds a dance staff and gourd rattle, with ketoh (bow guard), bracelets, jacla necklace, and embellished kilt, garters, and moccasins. Overall, it is a powerfully carved and massive figure, mounted on a wonderful natural cottonwood base. It is signed on the base, J.G. Honanie.

Animal Katsinas are often considered as guides, helpers, and physicians among the Hopi. The Pong (Mountain Sheep) is considered as such, a powerful figure with supernatural healing and rain-controlling powers. Mountain Sheep appears in Line Dances and in the Mixed Dance.

Jimmie Gale, as well as his brother Aaron is a carver of the highest caliber.  Under the tutelage of Hopi katsina doll carver Loren Phillips, both of these artists have assimilated the knowledge and technical skills needed to create works of fantastic beauty and timelessness.  Jimmie Gale, since 1983, has carved clothing and ornamentation in wood, with the X-Acto knife being his main tool.  His dolls are comparatively rare, as he only carves part-time at his home in Tuba City.

Condition: The carving is in original excellent condition.

Provenance: ex. coll. New York collector who purchased it from Adobe Gallery in June 1987.

NOTICE:   We have been informed that Jimmie Gale Honanie was killed in an automobile accident a couple years ago, either in 2009 0r 2010.