Multi-color Polychrome Santa Clara Pueblo Jar [SOLD]

Lela Naranjo Gutierrez (1895-1966) and her husband Van (c1870-1956) tested many ideas in pottery making, but only when they developed a decorative scheme featuring earth colors on a matte background did they achieve one which was an enduring success. Bold curvilinear designs on neutral tan or beige became the base for a new Santa Clara style.

The polychrome wares created by Lela and Van continued to be produced by younger members of the Gutierrez family, notably their children Margaret and Luther, and Luther’s daughter Pauline.

Following the death of his dad, Luther teamed with his mom and the two worked until Lela passed away, then Luther and his sister Margaret teamed until Luther passed away. Now Margaret works alone.

This jar by Lela and Van is an extraordinary tall jar with a pronounced lip and with two beautiful multi-colored stylized birds as the main body decoration. They are executed in black, red, blue, green, orange and rust on a beige background. The rim is brown and the underside is stone polished red slip.

The jar is signed Lela /Van on the underside, and there is a partial paper label that reads “FROM THE PUEBLO OF SANTA CLARA. ”

Condition: The structure of the jar is in excellent condition. There are some scratches to the painted surface but nothing of great significance.