Reycita Naranjo Carved Blackware Vase with Avanyu

The Artistry of Reycita Naranjo: A Study in Santa Clara Blackware Pottery

This stunning blackware pottery vase is the work of Reycita Naranjo, a renowned artisan from Santa Clara Pueblo. It stands as a remarkable exemplar of Santa Clara's carved blackware tradition, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and cultural heritage inherent in these creations.

What makes this piece particularly intriguing is its design composition, which mirrors that of a larger piece crafted by Elizabeth, Reycita's sister. Both pieces hail from the same esteemed collection of Santa Clara artworks, reflecting the shared artistic vision and familial ties between the two creators.

This vase, mirroring its larger counterpart in design, features two prominent horizontal bands gracing its rounded shoulder. As illustrated in the accompanying image below, one band showcases the powerful avanyu, or water serpent, a deeply significant symbol within Pueblo culture. The second band presents a repeating motif of sharp, right-angled elements. Revered as a deity among the Tewa Pueblos-San Ildefonso, Tesuque, San Juan, Santa Clara, Nambe, and Pojoaque-the avanyu serves as the sacred guardian of water. Often depicted as a horned or plumed serpent with fluid curves reminiscent of flowing water or the striking zig-zag of lightning, the avanyu's presence is felt in ancient cave paintings high above the canyon rivers of New Mexico and Arizona. Intriguingly, its imagery may connect to the revered feathered serpent deities of Mesoamerica, such as Quetzalcoatl.

Adding to the vase's aesthetic appeal is the tall neck, gracefully adorned with a band of feathers that cascade vertically down from the rim. This complex yet elegant composition harmonizes beautifully with the vessel's form, making it a favored design among many potters.

Reycita Naranjo's rendition of this design is executed with remarkable skill and precision, culminating in a piece of pottery that exudes strength and beauty. Her work not only embodies the artistic excellence of Santa Clara Pueblo but also contributes significantly to the rich tapestry of Native American art.

The bottom of the vase is signed Reycita Naranjo, Santa Clara Pueblo, N.M.

Reycita Naranjo (1926-2003) of Santa Clara Pueblo, was born into a large family of potters, all of whom are exceptional artists. Her sisters, Clara Shije, Elizabeth Naranjo, Florence Browning, Mary Singer, and Mary Carlisle are all recognized as outstanding potters, as is her mother Pablita Tafoya Chavarria. Reycita had been an award winner at Santa Fe Indian Market since 1981. She has been featured in numerous publications and prominent collections as well.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Reycita Naranjo Carved Blackware Vase with Avanyu is from a private New Mexico collection

Reference: Pueblo Indian Pottery: 750 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf.

TAGS: Santa Clara Pueblo, Elizabeth Naranjo, Florence Browning, Mary Singer, Pablita Tafoya Chavarria, Southwest Indian Pottery, Reycita Naranjo