This is a charming gunmetal fired plate by Maria Martinez and her son, Popovi Da. Maria made and polished the plate while it was painted by her son, Popovi Da  (1923-1971). The plate is highly polished and is one of his few pieces which has an animal motif.  This plate has a pueblo-style deer painted on the surface.  In front of the deer is a plant design.  Popovi Da was an accomplished painter in the San Ildefonso two-dimensional style and this plate captures that style of his art.  The deer is beautifully painted in motion.  It was only from 1956-9  that Popovi painted these pieces, which are among the most sought-after and best of his career!   It is signed on the back in the clay, “Maria Popovi“. The signature indicates that it was made around 1956-9.  The plate is in very good condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.

Maria Martinez Signatures