This is a fine medium size black jar with a well-executed matte design applied around the upper shoulder. It is in excellent condition.

COMMENTS: Some experts have contended that smothering pottery during the firing process creates a carbon smoke that penetrates the pottery, turning it black. Even though several books describing black pueblo pottery attribute the color change to carbon, the reduction of iron oxide is the correct mechanism. Ceramicists, describing ancient styles of Old World pottery, state that iron impurities in clay form red oxide at red heat, but if air is lacking during firing, iron impurities in clay form black magnetite.

Recommended Reading: Margaret Garcia is listed in Pueblo Indian Pottery: 750 Artist Biographies, C. 1800-Present, With Value/Price Guide, Featuring over 20 Years of Auction Records (American Indian Art Series, 1) (click here to view details of book) by Gregory Schaaf. (This out-of-print book is no longer available from Adobe Gallery)