San Ildefonso Pueblo Black-on-black Dish signed Maria/Popovi [SOLD]

Popovi Da deserves much credit for his influence on pueblo pottery. By having a retail shop at the pueblo, he was in a position to demand only the finest wares from potters who wished to sell in his studio.  He was following in the footsteps of his famous parents in demanding the finest work.  He encouraged many potters by purchasing their finest pieces during trade fairs and Indian Market.  Much of the demand for high quality pottery by collectors today is the result of Popovi's influence.  It was not until after he passed away in 1971 that prices escalated on outstanding pottery, but it was his influence that is partially responsible for it.

Popovi Da began collaborating with his mom on her pottery in 1956, following a period when Santana had been assisting her mother-in-law.  Popovi and his mom worked together until his death in 1971. Popovi worked with Maria in all aspects of pottery preparation and their pieces were co-signed.

This small dish is very typical of the high quality work of Maria and Popovi.  It was perfectly made, expertly painted and fired to a beautiful black finish.  It is co-signed Maria/Popovi and was made between 1956 and 1959.  After 1959, Popovi added the date to pottery.

Condition: very good condition with insignificant scratches.

Provenance: from the collection of a family from Pennsylvania

Reference and Recommended Reading: The Legacy of Maria Poveka Martinez by Richard L. Spivey, 2003