This is an exceptional gunmetal jar by Maria Martinez from around 1964-5.  The jar was made and polished by Maria.  It is one of her classic shapes with the very round shoulder and a short neck. The jar was fired by her son Popovi Da and it has a spectacular gunmetal surface.  Popovi was known for his firing techniques and his gunmetal pieces remain some of the best.  The neck of the jar has been “two-toned” with a sienna neck to contrast with the gunmetal surface.  There is his classic “halo” band, which is the dark black band separating the gunmetal from the sienna surface.  The piece is most likely from around 1964-5 or possible a few years later.  It was only in 1964 that Popovi Da created the black-and-sienna coloration.  As well, by 1965 Maria was signing “Maria Poveka” less frequently on her pottery and most pieces were signed “Maria Popovi”.  This jar is signed, “Maria Poveka” in the clay on the bottom.  This is a combination of her Anglo and Tewa names.  Her name, “Poveka” means “Water Lilly”.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.  It is certainly a unique style of Maria’s pottery and an important addition to any collection.