Laguna Pueblo Black-on-white Jar with Tularosa Revival Design

Myron Sarracino: Laguna Revival of the Tularosa Spiral

This impressive jar marks the first time a work by Myron Sarracino (b. 1967) has appeared in our gallery, despite his active career as a Laguna Pueblo potter since 1984.

The jar was meticulously hand-coiled using traditional white clay. It features a beautifully executed high shoulder, which provides an expansive canvas for the dramatic body design. The lower section of the body is finished with a smooth, polished white slip that extends to the base.

The design begins with a detailed band around the rim featuring four rows filled with black-over-white triangles. The main body showcases a powerful revival of the thousand-year-old Tularosa spiral motif. Interspersed between the spirals is a complex composition:

• A V-shaped element supporting a pair of black triangles, each detailed with an "eye" (or dot).

• A triangular hook element in black-over-white, subtly reminiscent of designs favored by historic Zuni potter, Tsayutitua.

The Artist: Student of the Ancients

Myron Sarracino was a student of the late Laguna potter Gladys Paquin but consciously chose to diverge from her style. He dedicated his work to mastering Black-on-white pottery, drawing inspiration from the ancient cultures of the Tularosa and Mimbres regions. Myron views himself as a student of those who came before, using ancient designs as a foundation to create sophisticated and recognizable modern variations.

"Indian art judges have showered Myron with prize ribbons, including Best of Show and Best in Traditional Pottery. He was barely 21 when he started winning awards." Schaaf. 2002:269

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Laguna Pueblo Black-on-white Jar with Tularosa Revival Design was purchased from the artist in 1996

Reference: Schaaf, Gregory. Southern Pueblo Pottery - 2,000 Artist Biographies. This pot appears in the following book: SANTA FE Sense of Pace by Jane Smith.

TAGS: Laguna Pueblo, Sourthest Indian Pottery, Myron Sarracino