Black-on-black pottery can be attributed to potters at either San Ildefonso Pueblo or Santa Clara Pueblo. When one is not signed by an artist, then its origin must be determined by other means. Potters at Santa Clara generally produce pottery that has thicker walls than those from San Ildefonso. This is because Santa Clara potters mostly produce carved designs which penetrate the wall thickness so that one must start with thicker coils for thicker walls that will be carved into.

This jar has thick walls so we have attributed its origin to Santa Clara Pueblo. It is beautifully constructed and the prehistoric Mimbres feather design is expertly applied. It is unfortunate the potter will not get credit for such a fine specimen.

Condition: The jar is in original excellent condition.

Provenance: ex coll Colorado collector

Reference and Recommended Reading: Born of Fire: The Pottery of Margaret Tafoya (click here to view details of book) by Charles King. (Available from Adobe Gallery)