Dolorita Vigil (1883-1918)

San Ildefonso Pueblo was still a rather remote village at the turn of the century when Tesuque and Ohkay Owingeh (San Juan) were gaining attention for their pottery because they were more accessible and the potters were providing pottery to Santa Fe traders. As a result of its isolation, changes brought on by the demands of the traders did not affect the style of pottery being produced at San Ildefonso.

Martina Vigil (1856-1916) and her husband Florentino Montoya (1858-1918) have been brought to prominence by author Jonathan Batkin in an article in American Indian Art Magazine. Other San Ildefonso potters of the early 1900s publicized by Batkin are Tonita Pena, Marianita Roybal, Dominguita Pino, and Dolorita Vigil. These 5 prominent potters, along with Maria Martinez, were the most famous at the pueblo.

Dolorita Vigil had a short life, dying during the influenza epidemic of 1918, at age 35. She did, however, leave her mark. She was an exceptional potter. She was a niece of Martina Vigil and was influenced by the work of her aunt. Her painted designs are strongly reminiscent of Florentino Montoya.

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