Early Sa’lakwmana or Female Sa’lako

This is a strikingly beautiful rendition of the Sa’lakwmana or female Sa’lako. This is one of those carvings that will be a centerpiece in a collection due to its size, vibrant colors, and the fact that it is the beloved Sa’lako figure. It is 16” tall by 11 ¼” wide. The professional base adds ¾”. Over its one hundred plus years of existence it has lost the tips of two of the tableta points (on the far left and right) – which does nothing to damage its exceptional appearance.

When I examined this katsina very carefully, I reached the conclusion it is circa 1900-1920. The reasons are: 1) the katsina is made with the simple, basic carving style found on early examples…. such as the blocky, unsanded feet, 2) the tableta is made of thick rough wood, not plywood, 3) an old-fashioned binder was used to connect portions of the tableta, which looks to be a mineral material as opposed to a commercial glue. Note in the final photo there’s a repaired break on one foot. The piece has been reattached with two small tacks, another indication of early vintage.