Early, Max – “Eagles in Flight” Jar

Max Early is one of the few traditional potters working today at Laguna Pueblo.  His work combines traditional forms with a blend of contemporary and traditional designs.  This jar is a traditional shape with a high shoulder and elongated neck. The jar has a rain pattern around the neck and a cloud design around the shoulder.  Max noted that these were “older, minimal Laguna designs”.  However, as with much of his work, the bottom area is where he created is own additional designs.  Here he said he had painted four eagles in flight over the four directional mountains.  It is beautiful imagery which complements the simplicity of the designs above. The rounded bottom harkens back to the traditional Laguna pottery when the water jars were meant to be carried on one’s head.  Note as well his use of the various clays to create a “three color” jar!   The jar is also traditionally fired, which adds to the overall difficulty of the piece.  It is certainly exciting to see a potter who is inspired by traditional shapes and designs and yet has the artistry to create his own distinctive variation!  The jar is signed on the bottom and includes a copy of his book, “Ears of Corn: Listen”.

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Early, Max (b. 1963)

Max Early is one of the few potters from Laguna Pueblo. He is a grandson of Clara Acoya Encino who, along with Gladys Paquin, taught him to make pottery. Max is part of the Turkey Clan in the pueblo that is shown in the signature on his pottery. He is well known for his revival of classic Laguna shapes and designs on his pottery. More recently he has been creating more innovative shapes and designs on his work. Max is also a poet and has incorporated some of his poems on his pottery. He has been an award-winning potter since 1994 at Santa Fe Indian Market and he continues to push the boundaries of both traditional and non-traditional pottery at Laguna Pueblo.  Check out his book, "Ears of Corn: Listen".