Jemez Pueblo Large Wedding Vase by Mary Small [SOLD]

This pottery wedding vessel was created by Jemez Pueblo artist Mary Small. In her typical style, the design was executed in grey-over-white, with accents of orange acting as a framework for the design. The predominant design on front and back is a white grouping of five teardrops that roll over through the arch to the opposite side. On the sides of the vase, under each spout, is a more comprehensive design executed in grey and orange on a white background. The center one is a diamond filled with arrows and clouds. Attached to the diamond are two arches, each containing a tablita floating on a background of fine lines. To finish off the design, Mary put two rows of connected clouds on the arch of the spouts.

In checking our history files, we find that we have no record of ever having a wedding vase made by Mary Small.  Perhaps this is an indication that she has not made many.  At any rate, this one is certainly not the work of an inexperienced potter of wedding vases.  It is quite magnificent.  It is signed by the artist on the underside.

Teresita Naranjo relayed to author Betty LeFree the following explanation of the wedding vase:

“After a period of courtship, a boy and girl decide to get married, but they cannot do so until certain customs have been observed.  The boy must first call all his relatives together to tell them that he desires to be married to a certain girl.  If the relatives agree, two or three of the oldest men are chosen to call on the parents of the girl.  Here they pray according to Indian custom and then the oldest man will tell the parents of the girl what their mission is.  The parents never give a definite answer at this time—they just say they will let the boy’s family know their decision.... Read more on our Blog

Condition: this Jemez Pueblo Large Wedding Vase by Mary Small is in excellent condition.

Reference: Santa Clara Pottery Today by Betty LeFree

Relative Links: Jemez Pueblo, Southwest Indian Pottery, Contemporary Pottery, Mary Small