WOW!  This is a large and very detailed seedpot by Joseph Lonewolf from 1988.  It is round in shape and fully polished.  The top of the seedpot has a realistic rainbow trout.  Below the trout is a stylized trout.  Separating them are four polished medallions, each with two realistic little flies that the fish are looking for.  Behind the realistic trout are four rainbow bands in green.  Below the stylized fish is a Flute Player and the feathers on its head are raised in the clay.  Next to the Flute Player is a realistic butterfly.  As the piece is turned there are two Mimbres-style fishermen trying to catch a fish.  There are small, white butterflies and a fish jumping out of the water.  Near the base is another realistic butterfly and a tiny Mimbres fish.  For a piece this size, it is exceptional to see so many figures, both animal and human, as well as a variety of designs and etching techniques.  All the etching and colors were added before the piece was fired. The colors are derived from natural clay slips.  Lonewolf writes, “the butterflies denote beauty in simplicity”.  There is the yearly symbol for 1988, which is a bear paw.  It is signed on the bottom, “Joseph Lonewolf”.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.   The last photo is of a similar design on a piece by his son Greg Lonewolf, that was made about the same time.   It is interesting to contrast to perspectives of a similar theme. 

Deciphered: The Yearly Symbols of Joseph Lonewolf