Shawn Deel – Tasapmana or Navajo Maiden

When this Tasapmana by Shawn Deel first arrived, it was missing the feathers on the top of the head. By the time Shawn informed me, I had discarded the box. Shawn replaced them exactly so now she is in her full glory. Shawn Deel’s own words re: his Tasapmana: “A project I worked on for three years on and off. Purple velveteen shirt. I made my own pattern on how to stitch the shirt, sleeves and collar. It took me over a week to get the shirt correct. I used leather as well for part of the project [on the skirt and leg wraps]. Feathers used are grouse, duck, and partridge. Also used natural white wool and red dyed wool [tied at the wrists]. I used horsehair for her hair/bun. On her wrist lies pieces of Mediterranean coral, mother of pearl and Royston… heishi beads are all strung up. Silver work: the conchos on the belt are two different styles. Each is stamped and filled/ rounded to get more of a defined shape. Also used Mediterranean coral…30 extra small cut/domed and stamped buttons for her shirt. Studs that would make her attire more defined… Beads for simple necklace with old Mediterranean coral added for spacers in a unique style and added details. The Naja for the necklace was tufa cast and has a piece of Kingman turquoise added in the center. Overall, the silver work took most of my time. Finding the right heat using the Tescom miniature welding torch… I don’t know how many beads I melted. The base is made of oak. Inlaid with Number 8 turquoise and Mina Maria turquoise.” The katsina is 12 1/2″ tall including the feathers and base.