This striking seedpot by Joseph Lonewolf is from 2001.  The piece is one of his from this period when he was creating exceptionally detailed and realistic animals on his pottery surfaces.  On this piece is is fully polished red.  The cougar head is carved in relief on the surface, with extra depth around the eyes.  The fur is then etched into the clay and the various colors are from natural clay slips.  The area behind the cougar is a blueish-brown coloration.  The back of the seedpot has a winged butterfly which represents beauty.  There are the two “yearly” medallions on this piece, which signify 2001 and are symbolic for his mother (Agapita) and father (Camilio).  At this time, in 2001, Joseph was creating some of his most exceptionally detailed work as he was adding more layers of etching to the surface.   Beginning in the early 1970’s, Joseph Lonewolf revolutionized the world of Santa Clara pottery by incorporating his sgraffito (lightly etching the surface of the clay) and incised (more deeply cut into the clay) designs.  The piece is signed on the bottom and includes the signed artist card.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.