This a classic bowl by Maria Martinez and her husband, Julian.  Maria would make the pottery and Julian would paint the design.  This bowl is round with a turned-in rim.  The entire piece would first be fully polished and then painted with a clay slip on the burnished surface. The design is a series of prayer feathers and lighting.  The design is repeated four times around the shoulder of the bowl.  It was fired a deep black in coloration.  The piece is signed on the bottom in the clay, “Marie + Julian”.  It is in very good condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.   It’s always great to see early work by Maria and Julian in such good condition!

Maria Martinez Signatures