Matching Manfred Susunkewa Maasaw and Loloma Artwork

This is a remarkable pairing: A Maasaw katsina by master carver, Manfred Susunkewa and art depicting the same katsina by renowned jeweler, Charles Loloma. For many years, Charles bought katsinam from Manfred at Santa Fe’s Indian Market and would sometimes paint them. The katsina and the artwork came from Charles’ personal collection.

The katsina is 16 1/2″ to the top of the pahos or prayer sticks on the head and the art work is 15 1/4 by 11 1/2. It is unframed as I wanted to leave that decision to the purchaser. Charles signed this work with “Loloma.” Maasaw is a central figure in Hopi religion. He is said to have greeted the Hopi when they entered this, the Fourth World, and also taught them how to grow corn and use fire. He is the God of the Underworld which is why he has a frightening, skeletal appearance.