Walter Howato – Large Hakto Katsina

This is a very large Hakto katsina by the late great Walter Howato (1921-2003). Walter was the co-developer of the Traditional Style katsina movement, along with Manfred Susunkewa, in the 1970s. This carving is 18 1/2” tall and 6 1/2” wide. This was purchased directly from Walter on the Hopi reservation. The katsina is carrying a carved depiction of an antler in each hand – which is what Haktos carry. One of the tines of the antler in the right hand has broken off. I can have this sent to a professional restorer or the purchaser can do it himself/ herself. As shown in photo 4, he is wearing a turquoise chunk bracelet. He has a necklace made of heishi and turquoise with large dangling feather and a abalone pendant. He also is wearing a hand-painted leather sash and belt and a natural leather kilt. His large feet allow him to stand stably.