This is a classic polychrome kiva rim jar by Lois Gutierrez.  She is one of the few potters who continues to create polychrome pottery at Santa Clara.  Polychrome, or more than three different colors of clay slips, are all painted onto the surface of the vessel before it is fired. This piece has a round shoulder and elongated neck.  The rim is carved in a step or “kiva step” shape.  There are stars painted on the rim of the jar.  The piece has a large avanyu encircling the outside of the jar.  The body of the avanyu is made up of a series of interlocking avanyu horns, which is a very creative idea!  This “horn” is how the avanyu was depicted in ancient Pueblo pottery (see last photo).  Below the shoulder are cloud an rain designs.  Did you know that Lois collects each of the different clays from around Santa Clara Pueblo in order to create these colorations?   The piece was traditionally fired.  It is signed on the bottom, “Lois”,  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.

Brand

Gutierrez, Lois (b. 1948)

Lois Gutierrez

Lois Gutierrez is the sister of noted potters Gloria Garcia (Goldenrod), Minnie Vigil and Thelma Talachy. She has won numerous awards for her pottery, including "Best of Show" at the Santa Fe Indian Market in the early 1980's. Her work has been featured in numerous books including "Talking with the Clay" and "Beyond Traditions". She is one of the few potters at Santa Clara Pueblo who continues to create true polychrome pottery. Each of the different colors on this piece are derived from different clays! Few potters are willing to take the time to find the different clays to create the various colors.