Salimopia Thluptsin’ona Katsina Doll, Circa 1940s [SOLD]

In the black waters of the Sacred Lake at Zuni, there are six chambers, one for each of the six cardinal directions.  A Salimopia Katsina guards each of the chambers.  The six Salimopia represent the six cardinal directions and each is a different color.  The Salimopia are messengers of the gods, guides for the katsinas, and runners whose speed and endurance are greatly valued, thus they are impersonated by young men, representatives of youth, vitality and beauty.  The Salimopia are appointed for the important Initiation of the youth.

In traditional Zuni form, the arms of the doll have been attached with a nail, normally so that they articulate, however, these arms seem to be firmly in place and do not articulate. The body is painted. This katsina carries yucca strips in both hands.

The Katsina wears an elaborately decorated kilt that is made of commercial material and has been hand painted with designs. Four yarn tassels hang from the kilt. A commercial strip of ribbon is used as a bandolier across his chest. Black yarn was used for the ruff.

Condition:  Structurally, the doll is in excellent condition.

Provenance: from the collection of a family from Oregon.  We sold this doll to them in 1985 and now have it back for sale from them.

Recommended Reading: Kachinas of the Zuni by Barton Wright with original paintings by Duane Dishta (Not available from Adobe Gallery)