Cruz, Marie E. – Plate with Bird Designs (1940s)

This one of the only pieces we have had by Marie E. Cruz (1894-?).  She was married to Max Cruz and the mother of Vicenti Cruz and Isabel Cruz and the grandmother of Maria C. Cruz.  She made pottery in the 1930-40s period.  By 1950, according to the census, she was no longer able to work.  This plate is polished on the back. The front is inside incised with three birds.  The designs are highlighted with red and white clay slips.  It is signed on the back, “Marie. E. Cruz”.  It is in good condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.

Marie Ortiz.

her daughter, Dominguita Sisneros.  Tomasita was one of the early revivalists in San Juan pottery. This tall jar was made by Tomasita and incised by Dominguita.  The style was inspired by the historic Posuwi’i incised wares.  The early innovation in San Juan pottery was this style, although typically with a red rim and base.  The central band is matte and incised with designs.  There is a horizontal rain band.  Below are designs representing the mesas and clouds. The incised areas are slipped with mica.  It is signed on the bottom, “Tomasita Montoya and Dominguita Sisneros”.  The jar is in very good condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.

https://kinggalleries.com/revival-rising-ohkay-owingeh-pottery-1930s-60s/