Aragon, Florence – Large Water Jar with Eagles and Heartline Deer (1980s)

Florence Aragon was one of the great traditional Acoma potters.  This water jar is indicative of the influence of her pottery and the continuation of traditional designs and forms. The jar is the traditional water jar or “olla”. The high shoulder and sloping short neck are part of this form. The jar has a heart line deer on each side.  There are rainclouds above and plants below.  As the jar is turned, there are swirling birds at the top and bottom.  They are filled in with thin lines.  The center has plant and fine-line designs.  This is one of the most complicated pieces we have had come back of her work.  The deer is painted with the symbolic heartline representing the center of the animal and its spirit.  The bottom of the jar is indented in the traditional manner when the pots were made to be worn on the head to carry water!  The jar is signed on the bottom, “F. Aragon”.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.

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Aragon, Florence (1929-2010)

Florence Aragon (1929-2010) was the daughter of noted potter Lupe Aragon and the sister of Rachel Aragon. She was also the mother of John Aragon. She learned to make pottery from her mother. She was known for her use of traditional shapes and designs on her pottery, winning awards at the New Mexico State Fair and Gallup Ceremonials.