Cruz, Helen Marmajo – Plate with Incised Clouds and Rain (1930s)

This is one of the only pieces we have had by Helen Marmajo Cruz (1904-1992).  She was married to Frank Cruz and the mother of Teresita, Frances, and Senaida Cruz.  The plate is polished red on the back and it is the early 1930s color of clay. The front is incised with a rain and cloud pattern.  The designs are highlighted with red and white clay slips.  It is signed on the back, “Helen M. Cruz”.  It is in good condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair. There is a stain on the front.  According to the census, she was no longer making pottery by 1950.

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/