Santa Clara Pueblo Black Carved Design Wedding Vase [SOLD]

Historically, potters from Santa Clara Pueblo made large black OLLAs and storage jars for utilitarian use. With the arrival of tourists at the end of the 19th Century, women began to create smaller pieces to sell to travelers. Today, Santa Clara is recognized for its stunning, highly polished blackware pottery. Along with a glossy finish, potters from Santa Clara adorn their pieces with incised designs that have a matte-finished background.

Vicky Martinez Tafoya learned to make pottery from her grandmother, Flora Naranjo. As she got older, she studied with Teresita Naranjo and Stella Chavarria. The influence of these two award-winning potters is evident in her work. She makes traditional Santa Clara carved pottery with fine polishing and precise carving. Her attention to detail results in pieces that are well crafted and pleasing to the eye.

Unlike pieces created and inspired by tourism, the shape of the wedding vase has historical significance. The two spouts represent the bride and groom and the base where the two come together represents the shared life of the couple. On this piece, the artist has created an elegant shape with a finely carved Avanyu around the base. The two spouts are joined by a graceful handle. The entire piece is polished beautifully.

Condition: The wedding vase is in new condition

Provenance: purchased directly from the artist

Recommended Reading: The Desert Southwest: Four Thousand Years of Life and Art by Allan and Carol Hayes