This is a small water jar by Tammy Garcia.  The jar is carved on numerous levels with contrasting polished and matte surfaces.  The rim of the jar is matte and has the undulating form which is often called a “raindrop rim”.  The neck is textured as is all of the background area on the jar!  The effect is dynamic with an added level of detail to the piece.  Around the neck are a series of rectangular shapes which are polished.  Tammy said they were meant to have the appearance of inlaid coral or stones.  Of course, the body of the jar is the main design. There is a water serpent (avanyu), which encircles the piece.  The avanyu is polished and surrounded by a matte red area.  Extending up from the base are polished and matte kiva step designs.  The size and intricacy of the jar give it a gem-like feel.  Tammy has won numerous awards for her pottery and been the recipient of the New Mexico Governor’s award.  It’s not surprising that with the intricate nature of her pottery she makes only about ten pieces of pottery a year.  Yet each piece is unique and expands on her distinctive style and voice in the clay.