Description: Cottonwood Tree Root | Dimensions: 9”h x 3”w x 3”d

Traveling at night by firelight, the Masau’u katsina presides over the earth, the departed moving into the underworld and the katsina that emerge into the world through the kivas. With spots on its head that symbolize clouds and a skull like face, the Masau’u is a cultural hero who taught the Hopi the art of agriculture and warned them about the dangers of the world. Often playing the role of a trickster chasing women and making bumbling mistakes, only makes the Masau’u that much more endearing and less frightening. Generally considered humanity’s friend, Masau’u are trusted to take care of the Hopi in the afterlife.

Hopi artist Armand Fritz from Keams Canyon, Arizona, learned to carve from his parents, Alfred and Marcia Fritz, in his youth. Following his military service (1968-1980), Fritz returned to Arizona and to carving. He has won numerous accolades and awards, served on the Hopi Tribal Constitutional Reform Committee and on the board of the Hopi Arts Association Committee. He is a very active tribal member and lectures often on Hopi arts. In addition to carving, Armand paints, draws, makes jewelry and pottery.