Art and Desiccation

California pepper tree sculpture, Superstition Mountains, AZ

This tree trunk, found at the entrance of the Superstition Mountains visitor center, has been converted into a work of art. Images have been carved on two sides of the trunk displaying features of traditional Native American life. The top photograph seems to depict the ceremonial side of traditional culture. I have been trying to determine if the winged figure carved above is a Kachina from Hopi culture or another cultural figure that I am not familiar with. A horse has been etched into the top right branch.

California pepper tree sculpture, Superstition Mountains, AZ 

This side of the sculpture is by far busier. There is a large Native American face carved on the left, with the profile of a bald eagle and, if I recall correctly, an owl behind it to the side. To the right of this face is a Native American riding on horseback, a bison, and a Pueblo scene. This is very much a gathering of images from traditional Southwestern Native American life.

California pepper tree sculpture, Superstition Mountains, AZ

I was happy to see credits included on this plaque and so I include them here.