Black-on-white Tall Neck Vase [SOLD]

Although traditional, historic pottery is typically the most revered, occasionally there comes along a modern piece that is just as compelling, in its own way. This is certainly one of those pieces.

A very uniquely shaped vase, this one features a robust body which then extends into a long, thin neck that culminates in a fluted rim at the top.

In addition to its distinctive shape, the vase includes a wonderful design pattern. Leno intricately painted a decorated line motif all around the vase, containing an arrangement of squares featuring two triangles within each. These patterns, separated by the line motif, are spread further apart around the largest part of the vase, the body, and are close together near the top, thinner part of the neck.

The bottom of the vase is signed Leno, Acoma NM.

Juana Leno was one of the finest potters of the 20th century at Acoma Pueblo. She quietly worked every day producing extraordinary pottery without seeking acclaim. She was a wonderful woman and very modest about her talent to produce such fine pieces.

Juana Leno (1917-2000) Syo-ee-mee (Turquoise)—formerly Juana Louis Vallo—may not have achieved the fame she was due, but it was not because of the lack of quality in her work, but because she chose to remain quietly at home and not seek fame.

For years, I drove out to her home at Acomita and purchased pottery from her, and I was always charmed by how graceful she was and what beautiful work she produced. She was one of the few Acoma potters from whom I purchased.—Alexander E. Anthony, Jr.

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Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Black-on-white Tall Neck Vase is from the collection of a client of Adobe Gallery

Recommended Reading: Acoma & Laguna Pottery by Rick Dillingham

TAGS: Southwest Indian Pottery, Acoma Pueblo, Contemporary Pottery, Juana Leno