George Cordero Male Storyteller with Two Children and Drum

A Unique Male Storyteller by George Cordero

This exceptional figurine by Cochiti Pueblo artist George Cordero offers a compelling variation on the traditional storyteller theme. Instead of simply narrating, this male figure is depicted as a chanter and drummer, actively performing for the two young boys seated on his legs.

The scene beautifully illustrates the passing of cultural knowledge: the adult is singing to the boys, and one of the youths is joining him in drumming. This act underscores the critical Pueblo tradition of teaching the younger generation the importance of ceremonial responsibilities, ensuring that essential cultural rituals-including oral and musical storytelling and dance-continue. Within this context, the drummer is typically the central figure, responsible for maintaining cadence, commanding a pause, or directing a shift in a dance.

Details and Attire: The male figure is finely detailed, wearing a rust-red shirt with a button collar, a traditional Pueblo cross necklace, a decorated belt, and moccasins. One of the boys is dressed similarly to the adult, while the other features an especially elaborate painted design.

The Cordero Legacy: George Cordero (1944-1990) was part of a hugely influential pottery family. He was the son of the world-famous Cochiti potter Helen Cordero, who is credited with inventing the original storyteller figurine. George's sister, Antonita Suina, and his daughter, Buffy Cordero, also carried on the tradition, having all been taught the art of making pottery figurines by Helen herself.

Condition: this figurine is in original condition with the exception that the drumstick belonging to the small boy is missing.

Provenance: This George Cordero male storyteller with two children and a drum was originally acquired by Adobe Gallery in 1999 from a private individual and subsequently sold to the current owners. It was likely created in the 1980s, during a period when George Cordero was actively producing pottery.

Recommended Reading: The Pueblo Storyteller: Development of a Figurative Ceramic Tradition by Barbara Babcock Ph.D.

TAGS: Storyteller figurine, pottery, Cochiti Pueblo, Antonita "Toni" Suina, Buffy Cordero, Tim Cordero, Evon Trujillo, Helen Cordero