Fragua, Juanita – 18 Rib Melon Jar with Painted Neck (1980s)

Juanita Fragua was known for her classic Jemez pottery and was the mother of BJ Fragua and Glendora Fragua.  This is one of her traditional melon jars.  The neck is square in shape is slipped with red clay and polished.  It is painted with a rain and cloud design.  Below the neck, it is a melon jar with the ribs pushed out from the inside and polished tan.  There 18 straight ribs.  It is signed on the bottom, “Juanita Fragua”.   Note as well her signature lightning bolt on the inside of the neck.  The jar is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.