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Object NamePot

Artist / MakerThrown by Maria Montoya Poveka Martinez (Pueblo, 1887 - 1980)

Artist / MakerDecorated by Julian Martinez (San Ildefonso Pueblo, New Mexico, USA, 1879 - 1943)

Datec. 1935

OriginSan Ildefonso Pueblo, New Mexico

MediumClay

Dimensions7 1/4 × 9 1/2 in. diameter (18.4 × 24.1 cm)

ClassificationsDecorative Arts, Ceramics

Credit LineGift of Margaret Griffin Groll. In the Permanent Collection, Brunnier Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object numberUM82.27

Status

Not on view

Collections

CultureNative American - San Ildefonso

Label TextDuring the nineteenth century, the art of making fine Southwestern pottery was virtually lost as native populations were encouraged to abandon their cultural identity and assimilate into Anglo- American society. In an effort to revitalize Pueblo pottery in the early twentieth century, Maria Martinez began experimenting with a style found among the ruins of Pajarito Plateau, creating a black polished surface, decorated with matte designs. "Blackware," made by most Rio Grande Pueblos, was traditionally large, crudely polished and thin-walled. However, the revival wares made by Martinez were heavier, with thick walls and a more finely polished surface, described as a gun-metal black sheen. Most pottery made by Martinez incorporates designs in black matte, a technique invented by Martinez and achieved through burnishing the surface. Typical matte designs may incorporate the "avanyu," or water serpent, simple geometric patterns, naturalistic symbols or feathers, as seen on this large pot.

MarkingsSigned on bottom "Marie and Julian"

Locations