Santa Clara Pueblo Polychrome Turtle Figurine [SOLD]

Margaret (b1936) and Luther (1911-1987) were the children of Lela and Van Gutierrez. Working together, the siblings continued the polychrome style of painting begun by their parents. Sometimes their work is whimsical and other times it is most elegant.  In the case of their animals, humor usually rules. 

The turtle shell is divided into 13 individual sections on which are painted symbolic items of a variety of sorts. As the base beige slip used by the Gutierrez potters ages, it darkens.  The older the item, the darker the slip.  The color of the slip on this turtle is about as dark as any I have seen which leads me to believe the turtle must date to the mid-20^th century.

Condition:  The turtle is in very good condition and is co-signed by the artists.

Provenance: from the collection of Katherine H. Rust

Recommended Reading:  Fourteen Families in Pueblo Pottery by Rick Dillingham