a figurative animal kneeling

Silas Roy Sr., Kweo (Wolf) Katsina carving

Silas Roy Sr.
1948-
Tewa (Hopi) Pueblo
Alternative Name
Silas Roy Sr.
Date
1996
Medium Specific
Cottonwood, paint
Classification
Sculpture: Wood
Dimensions
9 3/4 x 4 1/2 x 5 1/2 in. (24.8 x 11.4 x 14 cm.)
Accession Number
2025.35.28.63
Credit
Gift of Doris M. Lumsden
Memo / Artist Statement
Whenever the Deer or Antelope Katsinas dance in the plaza, another katsina is very frequently seen with them - the Kweo (Wolf) Katsina. He is their side dancer, and the stick he holds in his hands is said to represent trees and bushes that he hides behind as he watches them. When he appears, the Deer and Antelope are wary. After the dance it is customary to offer the Kweo Katsina cornmeal or prayers feathers so that he will use his knowledge to find and capture these game animals. (Wright, B., 1973:164)
Biography
Silas Roy Sr. (b.June 6, 1948) is from Moenkopi, AZ; Hotevilla, Third Mesa AZ. He has been carving since 1963 and has received numerous awards including Best of Show, Best of Class, Best of Division at the Heard Show. His work is widely collected and included in several museum collections. (Schaat, G.208: 267)
Inscription
Silas Roy (lizard)