This is a traditional complex polychrome 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 jar has a raised side with a kiva step pattern.  The rim of the jar has step patterns painted into the clay. On the sides of the jar are two Pueblo Antelope Dancers.  Interestingly, they are usually children who are the antelope who are in the dances and have a lot of energy.  There is also a sun design and clouds.  The inside of the kiva step shape has a painted cloud design. This piece is amazing in detail on the figures, the motion, and the number of colors. There are at least SEVEN different colors of clay on this jar.  Did you know that Lois collects each of the different clays from around Santa Clara Pueblo in order to create these colorations?   The jar was traditionally fired.  It is signed on the bottom, “Lois 2000”.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.  

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.