Blackware Miniature Pot with Sgraffito Creature [SOLD]

This miniature blackware seed pot was created by Santa Clara Pueblo artist Art Cody. A carved circle surrounds the shoulder, centered around the top of the pot. A figure appears within the circle, with the pot's black slip forming long claws, a curved tail, and a spikey abdomen. Additional designs appear within the figure, and a touch of sienna colors the center. The remainder of the exterior is uncarved and polished beautifully.

The artist signed Haungooah on the exterior near the base.

Santa Clara Pueblo artist Art Cody Haungooah (1943-1985) is well known for his modern pottery creations. Haungooah was the grandson of the famous Kiowa medicine man and scout James Haungooah, also known as Silverhorn (1861-1941). The first Haungooah became famous in the 19th century for his fantastic ledger drawings of life on the Southern Plains. The Haungooah name means "sunlight reflecting off a buffalo horn" in the Kiowa language. The second Haungooah, Art Cody Haungooah, married Martha Suazo from Santa Clara Pueblo in 1972. She was a potter and encouraged him to decorate her works for her. He became an outstanding decorator of miniature pottery and was one of the early artists to perfect the sgraffito style of carving, along with Joseph Lonewolf and Tony Da. In 1979, Pierre Cardin recognized him and his wife, Martha, for their artistic excellence. The famous French designer organized a European tour, which showcased their work. When Martha died (date unknown), Art Cody continued making pottery alone. He then met with tragedy in a head-on automobile collision in 1985. Their awards are documented for Indian Markets in 1978, 1979, and 1980.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Blackware Miniature Pot with Sgraffito Creature is from a private collection

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

TAGS: Dean Haungooah, Santa Clara Pueblo, Joseph Lonewolf, Tony Da, Modern Southwest Indian Pottery, Art Cody (1943-1985) Haungooah