Katsina Doll of a Hopi Gathering a Snake by Cecil Calnimptewa

This 9-inch-tall katsina doll by esteemed Hopi-Tewa carver Cecil Calnimptewa, crafted in 1986, is a remarkable expression of Hopi cultural heritage. The carving depicts a Hopi man in the act of gathering a snake (probably a Western diamondback rattlesnake), a scene that evokes the traditional Hopi Snake Dance. Adding to the doll's symbolic depth is a beautifully painted snake motif on the priest's kilt, a detail that highlights Calnimptewa's exceptional skill.

Calnimptewa (b.1950), originally from the Hopi village of Moenkopi, carved this piece from a single block of wood, enriching it with oil-based stains and pigments for a warm, natural finish. The figure stands poised, holding feathers in hand, preparing to engage with the snake. In Hopi tradition, snakes are revered within the Snake Dance ceremony, a ritual that honors the natural world and seeks blessings for rain and fertility. This katsina embodies the Hopi commitment to harmony and reverence for life.

The base of the carving is signed and dated, marking it as an authentic work by Calnimptewa, a prizewinning artist whose accolades include Best of Division, Best of Class, and First Place at the 1991 Santa Fe Indian Market. His one-piece carvings are celebrated by museums and collectors for their authenticity, cultural accuracy, and fine craftsmanship.

What is a Kachina?

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Katsina Doll of a Hopi Gathering a Snake by Cecil Calnimptewa is is from the estate of a family in Santa Fe

Recommended Reading:

- Hopi Kachinas: The Complete Guide to Collecting Kachina Dolls by Barton Wright

- Hopi Katsina: 1,600 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf

TAGS: Kachina – Katsina Doll, Hopi Pueblo, Cecil Calnimptewa, Jr., Hopi Pueblo Carver