Hopi Tasap Soutuntaqa Katsina Doll

The Hopi have Katsinas representing the many Native tribes with which they have had contact over the many decades of coexistence. They have a Comanche Katsina, a Supai Katsina, and other Katsinas for other tribes.  For the Navajo, their closest neighbors, whose reservation completely encloses the Hopi Reservation, they have several different Katsinas.

This Tasap Soutuntaqa Katsina doll represents one of several in honor of their Navajo friends.  According to katsina expert, Chad Burkhardt, this one is rarely carved but does participate in dances, particularly the Corn Dance. He usually appears as a side dancer with a group of corn dancers.

The katsinas relating to the Navajo dress in traditional Navajo clothing—Levi trousers, western shirt, concha belt, and jewelry. Except for the mask, their appearance is a contemporary one.  This doll, however, is wearing white cotton traditional Hopi trousers. This doll is circa 1950s and is unsigned by the artist.  

Condition: left foot has been broken and glued, minor paint abrasion

Provenance: the current owner of this Hopi Tasap Soutuntaqa Katsina Doll is from Oklahoma and purchased it in 2000 from R. B. Ravens Gallery, Taos, New Mexico.

Recommended Reading:  Following the Sun and Moon: Hopi Kachina Tradition by Alph Secakuku