Marcella Kahe, Hopi Pueblo Potter
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Marcella Kahe (1916-2008) was a highly respected Hopi-Tewa potter known for preserving traditional techniques and forms throughout her active career, which spanned nearly seven decades (1940-2008).
Artistic Legacy and Contribution
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Style and Work: Marcella Kahe was dedicated to making traditional pottery from her home village of Sichomovi on First Mesa. Her pieces are recognized for their authentic adherence to historic Hopi-Tewa methods.
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Unique Vessel Form: She was one of the few contemporary potters who consistently created double-spouted water vases. These unique vessels, which were made in ancient times to water young plants, feature designs historically appropriate to the vessel type.
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Teaching and Influence: Kahe was a devoted teacher and ensured the preservation of methods for the next generation. She instructed her daughter, Karen Charlie, as well as Emmaline Naha and her sister, Ramona Ami. Her daughter Karen Charlie affirms, "She made us do it right, in the traditional way."
Family and Clan Connections
Marcella Kahe was a prominent elder woman of the Butterfly and Badger Clans. Her extensive family network is also noteworthy:
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Village: Lived in the village of Sichomovi on First Mesa, which historically served as the guard village for Walpi.
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Immediate Family: She was the wife of Val Jean Kahe and the mother of potters Karen Charlie and Samuel Kahe.
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Paternal Family: Her parents were Emma and Hale Adams, and her siblings included Ramona Ami, Laverne Chaca, and Burke Adams.