Magnificent Maria Martinez Large Jar signed Maria Poveka

This polished blackware jar was made most likely in the 1960s, by San Ildefonso Pueblo artist Maria Martinez. It is signed Maria Poveka, which means that it was created without the assistance of a family member for painted designs. Unpainted pieces like this one allow the viewer to appreciate Maria's elegant vessel forms and skillfully polished slips.

This traditional Tewa vessel shape has endured forever at San Ildefonso.  The lower portion of the jar rises and expands gracefully, and then it develops into a curved wall as it rises to the rim. The jar has a smooth, natural look. It's as if it was created effortlessly, which we know not to be the case — even unpainted pieces like this one require incredible amounts of skill and effort to make. 

The burnishing is incredible. It has a mirror-like reflection and is smooth as glass. More than likely, Maria's sister Clara polished it. There is an elegance to these plain works by Maria. Partially, it is the large surface of the vessel with no design, leaving one to marvel at the vessel shape and the amazing burnish.

San Ildefonso Pueblo artist Maria Poveka Martinez (1887-1980) is probably the most famous of all pueblo potters. She and her husband Julian discovered in 1918 how to produce the now-famous Black-on-black pottery, and they spent the remainder of their careers perfecting and producing it for museums and collectors worldwide. Maria collaborated with several family members over the years and made unpainted pieces on her own. She is one of the most influential and historically significant Native artists. Her works are included in major museum collections around the world, and she is frequently cited as one of the most influential Native American artists.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Magnificent Maria Martinez Large Jar signed Maria Poveka is from the estate of the client to whom we sold this in 1997

Recommended Reading: The Living Tradition of Maria Martinez by Susan Peterson

TAGS: Pueblo Pottery, San Ildefonso Pueblo, Popovi Da, Santana and Adam Martinez, Julian Martinez