Max Early is one of the few traditional potters working today at Laguna Pueblo.  His work combines tradition forms with a blend of contemporary and traditional designs.  This jar is inspired by an older Laguna jar with fine-line patterns.  The center of the jar has  bold geometric forms which are painted with lines.  The lines are both red and black. They are separated by cloud and mountain patterns.  The neck of the jar has cloud and rain forms along with small corn designs.  The jar is a beautiful shape with a slightly elongated neck and a rounded base. The 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!