Ohkay Owingeh Polychrome Bowl with Hearts [SOLD]

In 1930 Regina Cata organized a pottery study group at San Juan Pueblo with the intent of revitalizing pottery production. The group studied ancient potsherds of wares made at San Juan in earlier times and selected Potsuwi'i Incised Ware (1450-1500) as a basis for a contemporary pottery type. By the 1950s, further development resulted in deep carved polychrome wares, and incised wares, both of which are still being produced today.

On the deep carved type, the rim zones and underbodies are highly polished red slip while the main body of the vessel remains matte. The design is carved and painted in the main body zone.  In this bowl, the artist carved hearts around the circumference of the body.  This jar is an excellent example of the revival style of San Juan pottery.

Tomasita Reyes Montoya was the mother of Dominguita Naranjo and Rosita de Herrera, both of whom are famous potters.  She was one of the original 7 potters in the 1930s San Juan revival of pottery production.

Condition:  very good condition

Provenance:  from the collection of Katherine H. Rust

Recommended Reading: Pueblo Indian Pottery 750 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf