Ryon Polequaptewa – Interpretation of Tawaquaptewa “Coyote with Lizard”

Ryon Polequaptewa is known for his interpretations of his great-grandfather’s work, Wilson Tawaquaptewa (1873-1960). Because of his important religious role in the village of Orayvi, Tawaquaptewa never made an accurate representation of a katsina, believing that to sell them would be disrespectful. Ryon has studied Wilson’s work and often creates inspired interpretations. This example resembles a Coyote and it has a lizard in its mouth. The carving is 9 3/4″ tall to the top of the ears with the large feather adding 2 1/2 more inches. It is signed on the feet: “Ryon Polequaptewa Hopi 2026.” This carving really captures Tawaquaptewa’s humor with its profusion of polka dots and crossed eyes.