Native American Hopi Carved Hummingbird Katsina Sculpture

Description

Native American Hopi Carved Hummingbird Katsina Sculpture by Paul Huma

The Hummingbird (Tootsa) intervenes on behalf of the Hopi people to convince the gods to bring rain. During traditional ceremonies, the Tootsa bobs and calls like a bird while moving with great speed. His songs are prayers for moisture, to help nourish plants and crops. He may also appear as a runner because he moves fast enough to catch an individual and whip him with his decorative staff. The Hummingbird Katsina appears in the Winter Kiva dances and the spring Soyohim dances. This beautifully curved piece is decorated with Hopi symbols.