Unusual Hopi Polychrome Pottery Picture Frame [SOLD]

This certainly is one of the most unusual Hopi pottery items we have ever encountered.  It was well thought out by the potter as it is not just a flat slab of clay but one sculpted in pyramidal shape.  The four sides of the frame slope downward toward the outer edges and the four interior edges of the frame slope downward toward the photograph. 

I will not speculate as to the name of the potter as she is unknown but she certainly was talented and very patient to take the time to fabricate such a delicate piece.  The frame is painted with traditional Hopi patterns.  The outer edges of the frame are painted brown and the interior edges painted red. 

A 1920 black and white photograph of the village of Walpi at First Mesa has been inserted into the frame.  The photographer's name is P. Clinton Bortell, who made several images of Walpi in 1920, all with a similar signature.  The frame is equipped with a wire on verso so it is ready to hang.

Condition:  the upper right section of the frame was broken off and has been glued back on.

Prvenance: from a gentleman from Albuquerque