Tay Polequaptewa – Interpretation of Tawaquaptewa’s Work – On Hold

Tay Polequaptewa is the great-grandson of Wilson Tawaquaptewa (1873-1960) who was the old Kikmongwi or Village Chief of the Orayvi. At times Tay provides interpretations of his great-grandfather’s work and this is one such example. Tawaquaptewa was known for never making an accurate representation of a Katsina. As Village Chief with important ceremonial roles, he believed he should not sell such items. Instead, he “mixed up” or “made up” all his carvings. I find this version by Tay to have facial elements of a raccoon. The carving is 9″ tall and 3 1/2″ wide. Note that he is wearing a version of a snake kilt. The carving is signed on both feet.