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Katsina doll
Arizona
Sio Hemis Katsina – New Corn Katsina doll
Hopi
Circa 1940s
Carved wood (cottonwood), paint
Height: 34.5 cm – 13 ½ in.
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This doll, adorned with a multitude of symbols related to moisture and agriculture, represents Sio Hemis, the New Corn or Ripening Corn Katsina. Hemis is one of the most iconic Katsinam in the Hopi pantheon. This spirit calls forth the rains that will nurture the growth of corn, the staple food for the Hopi people. Hemis derives its name from Jemez, neighbors of the Hopi residing along the Rio Grande.
Hemis dancers are present at the opening of the Niman dances, the Home-Going Ceremony that marks the conclusion of the Katsina season. At the end of the summer, after Niman, the Katsinam depart from the mesas, leaving the Hopi people for six long months. Hemis is one of the most fitting Katsinam for this farewell ceremony, as his presence indicates that the corn harvest is assured for the coming season. Therefore, he can leave the village with the inhabitants feeling secure, knowing that their sustenance is guaranteed.
Hemis dancers are present at the opening of the Niman dances, the Home-Going Ceremony that marks the conclusion of the Katsina season. At the end of the summer, after Niman, the Katsinam depart from the mesas, leaving the Hopi people for six long months. Hemis is one of the most fitting Katsinam for this farewell ceremony, as his presence indicates that the corn harvest is assured for the coming season. Therefore, he can leave the village with the inhabitants feeling secure, knowing that their sustenance is guaranteed.
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