Josephine Arquero Cochiti Pueblo Male Storyteller with Four Kids

This expressive pottery storyteller by Josephine Arquero is a classic example of Cochiti Pueblo figurative ceramics, showcasing traditional art techniques and deep cultural symbolism.

The adult male figure has four boys gathered on him for a storytelling experience. He looks straight ahead as he speaks. Two boys climb on his arms and two are corralled on his legs. His open mouth is the signature feature of Pueblo storyteller figures, symbolizing the live transmission of oral history, songs, and ancestral stories from elders to the next generation.

The male figure has a painted bolo tie, a patterned headband, and a chonga bun at the back of the head bound with traditional wraps. His shirt features delicate terracotta slip details, including cross-hatching, rain/cloud territorial motifs, floral accents on the sleeves, and a geometric back panel motif reminiscent of traditional Pueblo textile belts or embroidery.

The four clinging children — each with individualized clothing patterns (crosses, diamonds, and zigzags) — represent the community and future generations receiving knowledge.

The bottom clearly displays her standard hallmark signature Josephine Arquero written in ink on the unglazed base.

Josephine Arquero (1935-2021) was a prominent Cochiti Pueblo potter. She was the daughter of noted potter Damacia Cordero and learned the art of clay figure making from her mother. She passed the tradition down to her daughters (Martha Arquero, Marie Laweka, and Gloria Herrera), creating a celebrated lineage of Cochiti storytellers and animal figurines.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Josephine Arquero Cochiti Pueblo Male Storyteller with Four Kids is from the collection of a client from California

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

TAGS: Damacia Cordero. pottery, Martha Arquero, Marie Laweka, figurative pottery, traditional clothing, Josephine Arquero