Large Exceptional Tawaquaptewa Critter

Great example of a Tawaquaptewa carving. As with all his work, this does not portray an actual Katsina. Rather, he made it up because he believed that accurate representations should not be sold. This conviction came from his important role as Kikmongwi or Chief in the village of Orayvi. This example is quite large at 13 3/4″ tall with the professional base adding 1″. See my chapter on him in our 2019 book, “The Great Tradition of Hopi Katsina Carvers.” 

When I purchased this carving, it was missing its ears. Photos 3 and 4 show its condition. I searched my archives of scores of Tawaquaptewa carvings and found the example in photo 5. Since this carving is quite similar to the one missing its ears, I used it as the prototype for the purposes of restoration. My professional restorer also fixed some damage to the body and shoulders. It is now a very striking example and I believe the restoration was done in a scholarly manner.