Claw, Silas and Bertha – Large Bowl with 12 Cows, Donkeys, and Horses (1990s)
$ 400.00
This is a large open bowl by Silas Claw and Bertha Claw. Bertha would make the pottery and the applique designs were applied and painted by Silas. They began working together in 1968. This is one of the larger pieces we have had of their work. It is an open bowl and fully polished on the inside. The outside has 12 animals, four cows, five donkeys, and three horses, all in relief. They are presented as if they are each looking forward through a fence. It is a complicated and rather charming piece of their pottery! The piece was traditionally fired so that there are fire clouds on the clay surface. The colors were often oil paint applied after the firing to give the pieces a more “realistic” appearance. The piece would then be coated with varnish or a more traditional pinon pitch. This vase is signed, S. B. Claw” on the bottom. It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.
In stock
This is a large open bowl by Silas Claw and Bertha Claw. Bertha would make the pottery, and the applique designs were applied and painted by Silas. They began working together in 1968. The pipe is well balanced so that it sits with the stem upward. Thedeer is in relief on the front. The piece was traditionally fired so that there are fire clouds on the clay surface. The colors were often oil paint applied after the firing to give the pieces a more “realistic” appearance. The piece would then be coated with varnish or a more traditional pinon pitch. This vase is signed, S. B. Claw” on the bottom. It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.
Brand
Claw, Silas (1913-2002) & Bertha Claw (b. 1926)
Silas Claw and Bertha Claw were from the Shonto/Cow Springs region of the Navajo Reservation. Although both her grandmother and stepmother were potters, Bertha did not make pottery until early 1970s when she learned the craft from her neighbor Rose Williams. She began by making traditional Navajo style pottery and cooking vessels.
In 1968, Silas began making pottery and was one of the few Navajo men involved in the craft. Bertha assisted him throughout his career. Together they made pottery in a variety of shapes and styles. Bertha would make the pottery while Silas would create the designs. The designs are applique, which means the clay is added to the surface of the vessel. The colors were often oil paint applied after the firing to give the pieces a more “realistic” appearance. They would then be coated with varnish or a more traditional pinon pitch.