Santa Clara Pueblo Polished Blackware Pottery Bowl by Mida Tafoya

The Exquisite Blackware Pottery Bowl: A Master Work by Mida Tafoya

This polished blackware pottery bowl is the work of Mida Tafoya, a renowned artisan from Santa Clara Pueblo. Connoisseurs of blackware will find an array of elements to admire in this exquisite piece. Its form echoes the practicality of a pueblo chile bowl, yet it is clear that this piece was crafted with the intention of being a decorative item for sale and display, rather than for utilitarian use.

The craftsmanship that Mida has demonstrated with this piece is nothing short of excellent. The bowl boasts a smooth and well-balanced structure, with walls that maintain a consistent thickness throughout, a testament to the precision and attention to detail employed during its creation. The polished surface is a sight to behold, especially on the interior where the curved walls capture and reflect light in a captivating manner, creating a mesmerizing interplay of shadows and highlights.

Having had the privilege of handling only a few of Mida's pieces in the past, this bowl has left a lasting impression. Its elegance and the skill it exhibits make us look forward to seeing more of Mida Tafoya's remarkable work in the future.

The bottom of the bowl is signed Mida Tafoya.

Mida Tafoya (1931 - ) is a member of the famous Tafoya family of Santa Clara Pueblo. Her mother was Christina Naranjo, and her grandmother was Sara Fina Tafoya. She is the niece of Margaret Tafoya. Mida began making pottery in 1945 and, like many pueblo potters, was taught by her family.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Santa Clara Pueblo Polished Blackware Pottery Bowl by Mida Tafoya is from a private New Mexico collection

Reference: Pueblo Indian Pottery 750 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf

TAGS: Santa Clara Pueblo, Christina Naranjo, Sara Fina Tafoya, Margaret Tafoya, Southwest Indian Pottery, Mida Tafoya