Native American Hopi Carved Maasaw Death Katsina Doll

Description

Native American Hopi Carved Maasaw Death Katsina Doll by William Koots

Maasaw, also written as Masauwu or Masau, is known as the Hopi Death Katsina and as Creator. He is responsible for the Earth's surface, fire, and the underworld. Death was an important part of hunting and war, and hunters, warriors, and the shaman called upon him for assistance. Hunters sought food, and called upon Maasaw to guide the spirit of the animal into the underworld where it could enter the cycle of rebirth. Warriors sought the death of their enemy or power for battle. The Shaman sought to heal the sick, since Maasaw had power over death. This is a powerful yet simple carving by William Kootswatewa (signed Wm. Koots). This piece is from a private collection and it is spectacular.