$1,390.00
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Late 20th Century
21.5" H
From a Private Colorado Collection
Excellent Condition
Lee Norcross is a contemporary Hopi artisan from the Hopi Reservation in northeastern Arizona, specializing in Katsina carvings. Active since at least the 1990s, he is known for being Rooted in Hopi oral traditions passed down through family, Norcross carves with meticulous attention to ceremonial details. His works blend traditional symbolism (e.g., rain motifs, sun rays) with subtle personal flourishes, like vibrant color palettes inspired by Hopi landscapes. Includes Horo Mana (Cold Bringing Woman) (1996, auctioned via Artnet) and Terrific Power (1996), showcasing his range in depicting seasonal and elemental spirits. Featured in galleries like Kachina House and auction houses. While not as widely documented as elder masters like Nampeyo, Norcross contributes to the living tradition of Hopi carving, where artists mentor the next generation.
The Shalako Kachina originates from the Shalako ceremony of the Zuni Indians, the Hopi have borrowed the Kachina and have incorporated the deity into their culture. Shalako perform the ceremony as a rite that assures the transformation of winter's death into spring's rebirth. The ritual is expected to bless the people with the sun's light for another year.
The Long Hair Kachina is one of the most prominent of all Kachinas. It's purpose is to bring the precious gift of rain to the life-sustaining crops; is a singer of sweet songs who brings rain and flowers. His beard and loose tassels of feathers symbolize rain and cloud
The Sun Kachina (Tawa) is a representation of the spirit of the Sun, though he may on occasion be called the Sun Shield Kachina. Tawa is accredited with the Earth’s creation and thereby highly revered by the Hopi. Tawa and Kokyanwuhti, the Earth Goddess, created the Earth. Tawa and Kokyanwuhti possess powers over the realms surrounding Earth. These spiritual entities were powerful representatives of how we, the Earth, the Sun and all other creatures came to be.
