San Ildefonso Buff-on-Red Jar with Avanyu Design [SOLD]

Helen Gutierrez was from a famous family of artists. Her brother, Gilbert Atencio, was one of the most honored painters. Helen was the granddaughter of Nicolasa Peña Montoya and Juan Cruz Montoya; daughter of Isabel Atencio and Benjamin Atencio; sister of Gilbert Atencio, Tony Atencio, Pat Atencio, Angelita Atencio Sanchez; and wife of Frankie Gutierrez.   She was the mother of artist Geraldine Gutierrez. 

Helen’s painting on pottery was always exceptional.  The buff clay was consistently applied in a thick coat which provided for a good contrast between it and the red clay of the jar.  This jar demonstrates well how talented Helen was in forming a vessel, polishing it, painting the design and achieving a good firing.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: from a private collection

Biographical Information: Pueblo Indian Pottery 750 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf