This is a striking early jar by Tammy Garcia.  It was originally purchased from her in 1987 when she was just 18 years old! It was only two years before (1987) she won her first ribbon at Gallup Ceremonials.  The jar is coil-built and has an exceptional and complex shape. The neck of the jar is oval.  The base extends up to a high shoulder and there is just the slightest dip before extending up to the neck.  The neck is carved with lightning designs. The body of the jar has 11 interlocking lighting designs.  It is tightly carved and the jar is highly stone polished.  The piece was traditionally fired to a deep black.  The jar is signed on the bottom in the clay, “Tammy Borts”.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.  It is exciting to see such creative early in her amazing career.