This is a classic polychrome plate by Lois Gutierrez.  She is one of the few potters who continues to create polychrome pottery at Santa Clara.  Polychrome, or more than three different colors of clay slips, are all painted onto the surface of the vessel before it is fired. This piece has a matte background and is painted with six different colors of clay! The design has a swirling bird in the center.  It is surrounded by fineline geometric designs inspired by Chaco Canyon.  It is a dramatic use of color and design.  The piece was traditionally fired.  Did you know that Lois collects each of the different clays from around Santa Clara Pueblo in order to create these colorations?  It is signed on the bottom, “Lois + Derek”,  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.