This is a classic polychrome open bowl 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 shape of the bowl has open space and a kiva step edge.  The raised part has a Corn Maiden surrounded by two corn plants.  Note the detail in each of the ears of corn!  The remainder is a geometric Mimbres-inspired bird wing and cloud design.  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 to create these colorations?  It is signed on the bottom, “Lois”,  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.