Highly Burnished Navajo Pottery Vase by Alice Cling [SOLD]

This gorgeous vase was made by Diné of the Navajo Nation artist Alice Cling. It would not be inaccurate to classify the piece as “redware”, but we’d suggest setting the label aside and taking some time to explore the rich blend of tones on the vase’s exterior. The depth of color here is outstanding, and the exceptional polish amplifies its effects.

The vase’s elegant shape is equally noteworthy. From the thin, circular base, the underbody curves upward gently and slowly, holding about two thirds of the vase’s height. Then, the piece turns inward sharply, forming a strong shoulder. From here, it curves upward again to the rim, which matches the base in diameter. An interior coating of piñon pitch completes the excellent piece.

The bottom of the vase is signed Alice Cling.

Alice Cling (1946-) is a Diné potter. She digs her clay on Navajo land in the vicinity of Black Mesa. The element that lends itself to such a stunning red finish is her special use of a slip high in iron.  After the slip has been applied the artist will polish before she fires and uses either river stones or popsicle sticks to do so. Furthermore, it is the ash of juniper wood in the kiln fire that affixes to the pottery to create her marvelous use of fire clouds. Simplicity of form and a soft surface sheen are the hallmarks of Alice Cling’s work.  She began to learn pottery making in 1966 when she returned to Shonto after graduating from high school. Rose Williams is Alice's mother, and her sister is Susie Crank.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Highly Burnished Navajo Pottery Vase by Alice Cling is from a private collection

Recommended Reading: The People Speak: Navajo Folk Art by Chuck and Jan Rosenak

Relative Links: Diné of the Navajo Nation, Rose Williams, Susie Crank, Southwest Indian Pottery, Alice Williams Cling, Navajo Potter