Black-on-black San Ildefonso Pueblo Jar by Erik Fender [R]

Fender is a progeny of many talented potters from San Ildefonso. His mother is Martha Appleleaf, who is a very accomplished potter, and his grandmother was Carmelita Dunlap, who was a master at making large jars. He is a great, great nephew of Maria Martinez and it is not necessary to expound on her talents.

When one looks at this jar by Fender, there is no doubt that he has mastered the techniques of forming a beautiful vessel but has super-mastered the techniques of burnishing and firing a beautiful black jar.

The decoration around the neck is divided into two bands—the first of which is geometric and encircles the rim, and the second is the traditional Avanyu which encircles the shoulder. The tear on the eye of the Avanyu is a family tradition.

The jar was purchased in 1996 and is still in original excellent condition. It is a masterpiece of pueblo art.