Helen Cordero Drummer Storyteller Figurine circa 1970s

Echoes of the Pueblo:

Helen Cordero’s Drummer Figurine and the Rhythms of Cochiti Culture

This pottery drummer figurine was created by Cochiti Pueblo artist Helen Cordero. Those who are familiar with Pueblo ceremonial dances will recognize the significance of drummers like the one depicted here. Their strong, steady rhythms carry the songs, which guide the dancers as they perform what are essentially prayers. The music relies heavily on repetition and rhythm, creating a wonderfully hypnotic effect for all in attendance. The drums themselves—made from hollowed-out logs and cured animal hides—are incredibly beautiful as well.

With this piece, Cordero created a fine depiction of a Cochiti Pueblo drummer. He sits with his legs crossed, resting his drum on his left thigh, and supporting it with one hand. His right hand raises his drumstick, which is made of wood and deer hide. With his mouth wide open and his eyes shut, he is clearly lost in song, which makes him a fine representation of an actual pueblo drummer. His perfectly formed face and intricately portrayed clothing and jewelry suggest that he was created in the 1970s, when Cordero created many of her strongest works. The black and orange pigments are a bit bolder than usual, elevating the impact to a level that matches that of the song. Sitting on the adult's left leg is a single young boy who has both hands covering his eyes.  Is the drummer singing a scary story? Perhaps the boy is expecting a loud bang when the drummer brings down his drumstick, and he is shielding himself from the expected sound.

The base of the piece is signed Helen Cordero, Cochiti N Mex.

Helen Cordero (1915-1994) was a Cochiti Pueblo potter. Cordero was the granddaughter of Santiago Quintana and Magdelena Quintana; daughter of Mr. Quintana and Caroline Quintana-Pecos; sister of Trinidad Herrera; wife of Fred Cordero; mother of Dolores Peshlakai, Jimmy Cordero, Antonita "Toni" Suina, George Cordero, Leonard Trujillo (adopted); grandmother of Buffy Cordero, Tim Cordero, Tia Cordero, Kevin Peshlakai, Ivan Trujillo, Evon Trujillo, Robert Trujillo, Jeanette Trujillo, Del Trancosa. Cordero invented the storyteller figurine, which cemented her status as one of the most influential Pueblo potters. Her works are included in major museum collections around the world. Cordero passed away in 1994.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Helen Cordero Drummer Figurine circa 1970s is from a private California collection

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, Cochiti Pueblo Potter