Blue Ahote Hunter - Joseph Torivio Hopi Kachina Doll
The Katsina:
The Ahote is a hunter that originates from the Plains Indians, but has been adopted into the Hopi culture. He comes in two colors; yellow (Sikyahote) or blue (Sakwahote). His long and trailing eagle's feather headdress resembles a Plains Indian warrior. The colorful triangular patch with pendant colored circles between the eyes, represent the flowers of spring. Ahote appears in the Mixed Dance and the Plaza Dance. Sometimes, he carries a roast or boiled corn to give to the audience during his performance.
"In a Plaza Dance it is not unusual to see a line of Sakwahote with several Sikyahote, and a white or red form as well. All indications in his costume point to inspiration from a Plains-type warrior, particularly the feather headdress.
"A'hote may appear in the Mixed Kachina Dances, or the Palolokong Dances and the Plaza Dance. In his left hand he very frequently carries roast or boiled corn that is given out to the audience during his performance."
Ref.: Barton Wright, Kachinas: a Hopi Artist's Documentary (170)
The Carver:
Joseph Torivio is a young Hopi carver of extraordinary talent. Note the detailed carving and painting of the doll, and the very delicate feathers on the back. Joseph is someone to watch and invest in while his prices are quite affirdable.
Item No.: KD.0031
Artist: Joseph Torivio
Size: 8 1/2 in H
Price: 500
