Desideria Montoya Sanchez, San Ildefonso Pueblo Potter

Desideria Montoya Sanchez: A Celebrated San Ildefonso Potter

Desideria Montoya Sanchez (1889-1982) was a distinguished San Ildefonso Pueblo artist and a pivotal member of a renowned family of potters. She was the sister of the celebrated Maria Martinez, as well as Maximiliana (Anna) Montoya, Juanita Martinez (Juanita Montoya), and Clara Martinez, all of whom were accomplished potters in their own right. While they are often best known for their collaboration and support of Maria, Desideria's own legacy is significant.

She was recognized as a master potter during her lifetime, demonstrating her craft at the Museum of New Mexico in 1909 alongside Ramona Sanchez Gonzales, Maximiliana (Anna) Montoya, Maria Martinez, and Tonita Roybal. Her artistry was further highlighted in Rick Dillingham's seminal 1974 exhibit, Seven Families in Pueblo Pottery, at the Maxwell Museum of the University of New Mexico. Desideria's work and contributions remain a cherished part of Pueblo pottery history.

Recommended Reading: 

- Seven Families in Pueblo Pottery by Rick Dillingham

- Fourteen Families in Pueblo Pottery by Rick Dillingham 

TAGS:  San Ildefonso Pueblo, Maria Martinez, Maximiliana (Anna) Montoya, Clara Martinez, Southwest Indian Pottery, Ramona Sanchez Gonzales, Tonita Roybal, Rick Dillingham