Tawaquaptewa – Big Ears Creation – 1930s

I’ve written many times (e.g. Walsh, “The Great Tradition of Hopi Katsina Carvers,” 2019) that Tawaquaptewa was unique in the history of Hopi artists in that he never made an accurate rendition of a Katsina. As Kikmongwi or Chief of the village of Orayvi he believed that he should not make and sell accurate versions. As a result, he consistently “mixed up” or “made up” all of his figures. This is a mixed-up example in that the large ears resemble those of a Mongwu or Great Horned Owl katsina. However, the red and black polka dots on the head and body are examples of his deliberate distortions. 

The carving is 8 1/4″ tall and 2 3/4″ wide.  The carving did not stand stably so I obtained a professional base which adds 1/2″.  A classic example of his work.