This is one of the few sienna pieces by Tony Da.  What makes a piece sienna? It is first fired black and then fired a second time to burn off the black, resulting in a caramel-like coloration.  It is a risky technique as pieces often crack during the second firing. This is possibly the largest all-sienna piece made by Tony.  It was made around 1970-1 and has a high shoulder and elongated neck.  The jar has three large inset pieces of turquoise and hei-shi beads.  There are three larger areas of etched design with a Mimbres turtle and two Mimbres insects.  It is spectacular in size, color, and design. The jar is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.  It is signed, “DA” in the clay on the bottom.  It has been published numerous times, including twice in the 1976 Arizona Highways magazine.  It’s a work of art with extraordinary provenance and historic importance!

Tony had a short career that spanned from 1967-82.  He helped change the world of Pueblo pottery.   He was among the first to begin etching into the surface of the pottery (sgraffito), adding stones, hei-shi, and then began creating all matte carved vessels.  His pottery today is considered to be among the most sought-after by collectors and museums alike.  The pottery of Tony Da remains an important addition to any collection!