Louis and Virginia Naranjo Female Storyteller with Four Kids

This traditional Cochiti Pueblo Storyteller figurine was crafted collaboratively by husband-and-wife potters Louis Naranjo (1932-1997) and Virginia Naranjo (1932-2014).

The main storyteller figure is a female depicted seated with an open mouth (symbolizing the chanting or oral transmission of stories and songs) and closed eyes. Four children surround her — two clinging to the upper back/shoulders and two seated on her lap. It was formed using natural Cochiti clay, decorated with natural red and white clay slips along with black wild spinach (guaco) pigment. 

The piece features traditional Cochiti motifs across the garments. The adult female is beautifully dressed in a traditional black dress which covers an elaborately long sleeve blouse. Triple rainclouds decorate her sleeves and the hem of her dress. She wears hi-top moccasins. A shawl wrapped around her body secures the two boys on her back. The pair of boys on her lap are dressed identically. The children, with open mouths, are singing along with her.

The base bears the hand-painted inscription Louis & Virginia Naranjo / Cochiti, N.M.

About the Artists

Louis and Virginia Naranjo were master figurative artists from Cochiti Pueblo known for their craftsmanship and playful sense of humor. They collaborated on figurines ranging from storytellers and Pueblo dancers to whimsical characters like tourist figures, mermaids, and bears.

Louis began creating pottery later in life with guidance from his wife Virginia and mother Frances Suina. He is particularly celebrated in Southwest Pueblo pottery history as the innovator of the famous "Bear Storyteller" figures.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Louis and Virginia Naranjo Female 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: Louis Naranjo, Contemporary Pottery, Virginia Naranjo, Cochiti Pueblo, Louis and Virginia Naranjo