Robert Tenorio Large Kewa Pottery Storage Jar with Flora and Fauna

The Artistic Journey of Robert Tenorio: Mastering the Traditional Santo Domingo Pueblo Pottery

This magnificent polychrome storage jar is the creation of Robert Tenorio, a renowned potter from Santo Domingo Pueblo. With dimensions of 16-½" x 14", this piece stands out due to its scale, extending well beyond the size of a typical water jar. This tasteful and skillful modification of a traditional style is a testament to Tenorio's mastery.

The exterior of this large pot is adorned with three design bands. The upper band encircles the neck and flared rim, featuring diagonal lines of linked triangles. Tenorio's innovative approach is evident in the alternating directions of the triangles, forming intriguing slanted star designs. Below these stars, a second band of linked triangular forms provides a stable foundation for the dynamic designs above. The third and largest band, claiming the majority of the jar's underbody, showcases Tenorio's creativity with two bird and two flower designs. His execution of these forms is impeccable, adding a vibrant splash of color to the earthy cream slip. This piece is a remarkable representation of Tenorio's outstanding craftsmanship.

The jar, signed ‘Robert Tenorio, Santo Domingo NM' at the bottom, includes an optional wooden stand with three arms for support. However, it is designed to stand safely on its own.

Robert Tenorio (1950- ) hails from KEWA, or Santo Domingo Pueblo. He embarked on his artistic journey as a jeweler before transitioning into pottery making. Initially crafting stoneware, he later embraced traditional methods and materials. Today, Tenorio stands as one of the most significant Pueblo potters, creating works that blend modern aesthetics with ancestral designs and natural materials. His work, widely exhibited, has garnered numerous awards and accolades, underscoring his contribution to the art world.

Condition: very good condition, one small rim chip which has been glued into place, some small areas of abrasion to red slip near bottom (see below).

Provenance: this Robert Tenorio Large Kewa Pottery Storage Jar with Flora and Fauna is from a private Santa Fe collection

Recommended Reading: THE POTTERY OF SANTO DOMINGO PUEBLO A Detailed Study of its Decoration by Kenneth M. Chapman

TAGS: Southwest Indian Pottery, Kewa - Santo Domingo Pueblo, Contemporary Pottery, Robert Tenorio, Kewa Pueblo Potter