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Lot 212

Charles Loloma, Attributed/Manner of:...

Lot number212
Estimate3,000.00 - 5,000.00 USD
AuctionAutumn Auction for Collectors: Fine Art and World Treasures
DateOctober 25, 2026 at 2:15 pm MT
Auction houseGallery Arts & Auctions Co.
LocationNew Mexico, New Mexico

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Description

Collection of Sixteen Hopi Katsina Figure Studies. Charles Loloma (American, Hopi, 1921–1991)

Remarkable collection of sixteen individual figure studies inspired by the visual language of Hopi Katsina imagery, presented as a cohesive group and unified by a striking combination of geometric structure, ceremonial dress, feathered headdresses, masks, symbolic patterning, and vivid Southwestern color.

Each sheet depicts a distinct standing figure, individually conceived with variations in facial structure, headdress, costume, ornament, and ceremonial attributes. The ensemble ranges from highly elaborate feathered and architectural forms to more restrained geometric masks, creating a visually rich survey of Indigenous-inspired figuration. Strong blacks, reds, turquoise blues, yellows, greens, and earth tones are repeatedly contrasted against pale paper grounds, giving the group exceptional graphic presence when viewed together.

Executed in mixed media on paper, apparently combining ink, graphite, colored pencil, watercolor and/or gouache. The compositions display crisp contour drawing alongside areas of hand-applied color, cross-hatching, decorative pattern, and carefully articulated geometric motifs. Several works show particularly intricate treatment of feathers, textiles, masks, and ceremonial regalia.

The group is especially compelling as a complete sixteen-piece ensemble, allowing the individual figures to function both independently and collectively. When displayed together, the works create a highly decorative and museum-like presentation with strong visual rhythm, repetition, and variation across the series.

Each work bears a stylized signature or inscription at the lower portion of the sheet. The imagery is closely associated with the visual vocabulary of Southwestern Native American ceremonial figures and the broader artistic environment connected with Hopi design, sculpture, jewelry, and modern Indigenous art.

The sixteen works are offered together as one lot. No frames are shown. The sheets display varying degrees of age-related toning, scattered foxing, light spotting, minor edge wear, handling marks, and occasional surface irregularities visible in the photographs, consistent with works on paper of apparent age.

An unusually extensive and visually impressive group, notable for the diversity of its figures, vibrant hand-worked surfaces, and strong Southwestern character. Presented together, the sixteen sheets form a commanding decorative ensemble well suited to a collection focused on Native American, Hopi, Southwestern, ethnographic, or American modern art.

DIMENSIONS
16 works, mixed sizes, approximately 12 x 8 inches each, with minor variations from sheet to sheet.

PROVENANCE
Private collection.