Santa Clara Pueblo Polychrome Vase with Handles [SOLD]

During the Depression in the first quarter of the 20^th century, potters were significantly affected in the loss of interest in their wares and loss of income from no sales.  It was about this time that they began to make items that were recognizable by the non-Native population of Santa Fe and the surrounding areas.  They made items that they thought the New Mexican households would recognize as useable, not just decorative.  There were sugar bowls, candle holders, salt and pepper shakers, pitchers, and other functional items.  This two-handle vase was made for flower arrangements.  It was items such as this that the potters hoped that local residents would purchase.

It must be stated that the potter's intuition was correct.  Many such items were made by the pueblo potters in the 1930s and ever since that time.  Most of these are no longer in daily use but have now assumed the status of collectibles.

This vase is beautifully decorated with a pair of back-to-back rectangular-headed warriors or other mythological figures.  It probably dates to the 1970s or thereabouts.

Condition:  It is in original condition with the exception of some discoloration of the red underbody where a previous price tag appeared.  No slip is missing, only darker from the tape adhesive.  It is signed Margaret/Luther.

Provenance: from the collection of Katherine H. Rust

Recommended Reading:  Fourteen Families in Pueblo Pottery by Rick Dillingham