Black-on-black Deep Dish by Tonita & Juan Roybal [SOLD]

This is an exceptional and very large Black-on-black deep dish by Tonita Martinez Roybal (1892-1945) and Juan Cruz Roybal (1896-1990) of San Ildefonso Pueblo, signed Tonita & Juan. Tonita had married Juan in 1916, so this dish was made in the period 1916-1945.

Tonita has been called one of the finest potters at San Ildefonso Pueblo. She was easily equated to Maria Martinez. Tonita consistently produced the finest blackware, with high burnish, deep color, and impeccable construction. Early in her career, she painted her own pottery, but after marrying Juan, she left it to him to paint the designs. Pieces painted by him are co-signed Tonita & Juan, as is this one.

The strong visual design on the interior of the dish features eagle feathers, what could be lightning and rain, and triangles outlined by triangles. Itt’s a very complicated design that was masterfully applied. The dish is in very good condition with only minor scratches but none that mar the beauty of the design.

A specially constructed Plexiglas stand has been made for the dish so that it can be viewed from an upright position.

Provenance: New York City client.