Intricately Carved Redware Jar with Bear Paws and Feathers [SOLD]

This carved redware pot was made by Anna and Fidel Archuleta of Santa Clara Pueblo. When collaborating, Anna builds and polishes each pot, and her husband Fidel handles carving and firing. With this piece, Anna’s tall-necked vessel provided ample space for Fidel’s intricate designs. 

Fidel created unique variations of traditional design elements, incorporating feathers, kiva steps, and bear paws. Arrows appear, which might suggest heartlines or Avanyu lightning tongues. The bear paws look skeletal in comparison to the traditional version, with sharp, pointed claws appearing instead of the customary series of straight lines. The carving is precise and consistent, matching the nature of the designs.

The bottom of the jar is signed Anna & Fidel Archuleta.

Anna Archuleta (1953- ) is from Santa Clara Pueblo. She is the daughter of Jose Ernest Tapia and Belen Tapia. Anna learned pottery making from her mother Belen Tapia. Anna started making pottery in 1975, specializing in carved redware and blackware, polychrome redware bowls, jars, and redware melon bowls. Anna sometimes collaborates with her husband Fidel Archuleta.

Condition: excellent condition, a few light abrasions

Provenance: this Intricately Carved Redware Jar with Bear Paws and Feathers is from a private collection

Reference: Pueblo Indian Pottery: 750 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf

TAGS: Santa Clara Pueblo, Belen Tapia, Modern Southwest Indian Pottery, Anna Archuleta