“Left Handed Hunter” Katsina Doll by Vern Mahkee

The Left-Handed Hunter Katsina (Sa'lakwahu) is known for doing everything in reverse. When descending a ladder, he moves backward; when shooting a bow, he draws with his left hand instead of his right. This intricately carved figure captures that essence, posed at a dramatic angle, ready to release an arrow with his left hand.

Upon closer examination, one will notice that his outfit is split — striped on one side like a Koshare, further emphasizing Sa'lakwahu's unconventional and contradictory nature. This striking visual detail highlights the Katsina's symbolic duality, representing both humor and trickery. Signed "Left-Handed Hunter" by V. Mahkee on the bottom, this piece beautifully embodies the spirit of this unique Katsina.

Artist Vern Mahkee (1963- ) lives in the village of Kykotsmovi on Third Mesa on the Hopi Reservation. He is a nephew of Alvin James Makya, an extremely talented Katsina Doll carver, who was Mahkee's mentor.

"This fussy little kachina is called "Left-handed" because he carries his bow in his right hand and shoots with his left. Most of his gear is reversed. Colton credits him with being derived from the Hualapai Indians but some Hopis say that he came from the Chemehuevi. He appears in a great many dances, like the Mixed Kachina Dance, in groups in the kivas or separately as a warrior in the Powamu Ceremony. He may act as a prompter in a dance or be found making odd little bows and taking small mincing steps at the edge of a procession." - Kachinas: A Hopi Artist Documentary, Barton Wright.

What is a Kachina?

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: This "Left Handed Hunter" Katsina Doll by Vern Mahkee is from the estate of an Adobe Gallery client.

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

TAGS: Katsina Dolls, Hopi Pueblo, Hopi Kachina Dolls, Vern Mahkee