This is a classic polychrome water jar 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 is a water jar shape with a low shoulder and an elongated neck.  The jar has two large hummingbirds and flowers. The flowers are both realistic and traditional in design.  The jar is colorful with SIX different colors used for the designs.  Did you know that Lois collects each of the different clays from around Santa Clara Pueblo in order to create these colorations?  The rim has small kiva step designs representing the four directions.  The jar was traditionally fired.  It is signed, “Lois” and the jar is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.  There is a Third Place Ribbon from the 1998 Gallup Ceremonials. 

Brand

Gutierrez, Lois (b. 1948)

Lois Gutierrez

Lois Gutierrez is the sister of noted potters Gloria Garcia (Goldenrod), Minnie Vigil and Thelma Talachy. She has won numerous awards for her pottery, including "Best of Show" at the Santa Fe Indian Market in the early 1980's. Her work has been featured in numerous books including "Talking with the Clay" and "Beyond Traditions". She is one of the few potters at Santa Clara Pueblo who continues to create true polychrome pottery. Each of the different colors on this piece are derived from different clays! Few potters are willing to take the time to find the different clays to create the various colors.