This jar by Steve Lucas is an elegant shape with a wide shoulder and a sloping neck.  The jar is thin-walled and stone polished before it is fired.  The top of the jar is painted with a series of four swans.  They are highlighted with white clay on the neck and tails.  Each bird consists of Hopi geometric designs painted with bee weed.

The stylized birds are based on a traditional design revived by my aunt, Dextra. I would look at the design and think I could add or take away something to make it look better.  When painting, I try and change up the designs from the old-style designs.  

The jar was traditionally fired with amazing fire clouds on the surface.  It is signed on the bottom with his name and an ear of corn (Corn Clan) and a Mudhead Katsina.