Helen Gutierrez (1935-1993) was a daughter of Isabel Atencio, a sister of Gilbert Atencio and the mother of Geraldine, Carol, and Rose Gutierrez. She was known for her traditional San Ildefonso pottery.  This jar is highly polished red.  It is painted with a buff-colored clay to create the classic bird wing pattern which encircles the piece.  The jar was traditionally fired red.  The design and style are classic for San Ildefonso.  The jar is signed on the bottom in the clay, “Helen Gutierrez”.  It is in very good condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.