Robert Tenorio Kewa Pueblo Jar in the Style of The Aguilar Sisters

This beautiful polychrome jar was crafted by Robert Tenorio of Kewa Pueblo (formerly known as Santo Domingo Pueblo). It pays homage to a distinctive style of pottery pioneered in the early 1900s by the Aguilar sisters and their sister-in-law.

Description of this Pottery Jar

Tenorio's piece is a stunning example of this resurrected style. The main body of the jar features a rust-red field surrounding an elaborate design of black hexagons floating on a cream-colored base.

The neck of the jar is decorated with black rectangular boxes separated by a thin, rust-red line. A series of rust-red framing lines accent the vessel: one pair sits just below the black rim, three more frame the black rectangles, and another pair can be found near the base. A wide black band and a rust-red underbody complete the design.

The jar is signed on the underbody with Robert Tenorio Kewa N.M. 2020. The interior is coated with a micaceous clay slip, and his hallmark hand symbol is impressed into the clay.

History of the Style

The Aguilar family-specifically sisters Asunción Aguilar Caté and Felipita Aguilar Garcia, along with their sister-in-law, Mrs. Ramos Aguilar-are credited with this innovative style. Initially celebrated for their tall, slender water jars featuring traditional black-on-cream designs, they began experimenting around 1910. They introduced bold new patterns that used large areas of black and red, outlined with delicate cream lines. This departure from traditional techniques made their pottery highly sought after.

Over the years, this style has been revived by other notable potters. Santana Melchor brought it back on a small scale in the mid-20th century. Today, Robert Tenorio, considered one of Kewa Pueblo's finest potters, continues this tradition. By reintroducing these historical designs, he honors the legacy and artistry of the Aguilar family, ensuring their innovative spirit lives on.

Condition: Very good condition

Provenance: this Robert Tenorio Kewa Pueblo Jar in the Style of The Aguilar Sisters is from a client of Adobe Gallery

Recommended Reading: Douglas, Frederick H. Santo Domingo Pottery of the "Aguilar Type". Clearing House for Southwestern Museums, Denver Art Museum, Newsletter

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