Crow Mother Katsina Doll by Kerry L. David [SOLD]

The Crow Mother Katsina, or Angwushahau-i, is a revered figure in Hopi culture, embodying leadership, compassion, and guidance. As the female chief Katsina, she appears on all three Hopi mesas, moving with stately grace and singing softly. Central to her role is the initiation of young boys into the Katsina tradition, where she commands their attention with a firm yet nurturing presence, reinforcing the importance of the Katsina way of life. Considered the mother of all Katsinam, she holds a vital place in Hopi spiritual teachings.

She plays a key role in the Powamu ceremony, a major Hopi festival that takes place in the months leading up to the spring solstice. This 16- to 20-day event marks the arrival of the Katsinam, with ritual dances and sacred offerings. Traditionally depicted by a male dancer, the Crow Mother is known for carrying a basket filled with bean sprouts or corn kernels, symbolizing renewal and the planting season.

This exceptional carving by Kerry L. David (b. 1963) is crafted from a single piece of cottonwood and affixed to a base richly inscribed with traditional Pueblo motifs, including an eagle, step patterns, a multi-level pueblo, a Kokopelli, and a sun face. The artist's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the intricately rendered necklace featuring jacla adornments. The base is inscribed: Carved by Kerry L. David, Crow Mother Kachina.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Crow Mother Katsina Doll by Kerry L. David is from the estate of an Adobe Gallery client.

Recommended Reading: KACHINAS A Hopi Artist's Documentary by Barton Wright

TAGS: Hopi Pueblo, Katsina Dolls, Neil David, Sr., Les David, Kerry L. David