19th Century Sipiknitaqa or Guard/ Whipper Katsina – SOLD

Rare 19th century Sipiknitaqa or Guard/ Whipper katsina in putsqatihu or cradle katsina form. The spindly splayed fingers and simple design point to its 19th century dating along with the ancient patina. Note the unusual forms on the back of the head that appear to be constellations. The katsina is 7 1/2″ tall with the professional base adding 1/2 inch.

Hopi author Alph Secakuku has written, “Sipiknitaqa is a Whipper katsina guard who performs security functions during the katsina rituals…Sipiknikatsinam portray honorable characters and serve as excellent protectors of katsinam (“Following the Sun and Moon,” p. 22).