This remarkable Hopi puppet set was made by Dean Howato, son of the famed Walter Howato, who helped keep old style katsina carving alive through the 1960s, 70s and 80s until it was revived. 9 by 11 inch base. 15 inches tall. Absolutely unique. $2100. (SANTA FE)
In the first two photos in the row above is a Kwikwilyaqa or Mocking katsina made in the 1970s by an unknown Hopi artist. He is 11.75 inches high and $240. (SANTA FE)
Carved 50+ years ago, this piggyback Koyemsi carving measures 15.5 inches tall. Note: it has a vertical drying crack that was clearly there when it was carved. A mix of mineral paints and acrylic. $675. (TUCSON)
At right is a doll carved in the style of Tewaquaptewa by his great-grandson, Ryon Polequaptewa. This one at left is 11.5 inches tall. $600. Next is a Qöqööqle from the 1960s, this piece is unsigned. 6 5/8 inches high and $200. (Both in SANTA FE)
Tewaquaptewa (1873-1960) was the last traditional kikmongwi of Orayvi Village. He began carving in his very distinctive style in the 1920s. He dolls often suggest specific katsinas but in each case are in fact an amalgam of design elements from several different katsinas. ( See: Barry Walsh, “Kikmongwi as Artist: The Katsina Dolls of Wilson Tawaquaptewa,” Winter 1998, American Indian Art magazine.
