This is a classic early large jar by Maria Martinez. It is from 1920-25 and it was made and polished by Maria Martinez and painted by her husband, Julian.  These early pieces are signed, “Marie”, although Julian was painting the designs.  It was not until around 1925 that they began to sign both names to the pottery.  The jar has a round body and a short neck.  The design is a very early style of the eagle feather pattern. Note at the top of the feather, the rectangular black matte area, which is in the center of the feather.  As time progressed, that moved to one side so that it was easier to paint, as it took more time to paint it in the center of the feather.  However, the result is always visually striking with the older style. This jar is highly polished and fired black.  It is in very good condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.  There are some light surface scratches, which are not unexpected with the earlier pieces of her work.  It is signed on the bottom in the clay, “Marie”.   Definitely a classic in shape, design, and coloration!

Maria Martinez Signatures