WOW!  This is a highly detailed tall seedpot by Joseph Lonewolf.  Beginning in the early 1970s, 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.  This piece is coil-built, stone polished, and fully designed.  There is a Pueblo dancer on one side and a Pueblo Drummer on the other side.  They are very detailed in their design.  Surrounding them are 25 realistic butterflies.  The wings are all etched and they are highlighted with various colors of clay slips.  It is fulid design that matches the tall shape of the piece.  Note near the base there is the “Star” yearly symbol (1985) and the “Heart” yearly symbol (1986).  It indicates that he began the piece in one year and completed it in another year.  Larger and more complicated pieces would often take him several years to complete.  The precision of the designs and the shine of the polished surface create a perfect balance.  This piece is in perfect condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.  It is signed on the bottom, “Joseph Lonewolf”.

Deciphered: The Yearly Symbols of Joseph Lonewolf

Deciphered: The Yearly Symbols of Joseph Lonewolf