This a tightly painted jar by Maria Martinez and her husband, Julian.  Maria would make and polish the pottery and Julian would paint the design.  This jar has a round shape and an elongated neck. It is a more typical early water jar shape.  The piece is highly polished and around the shoulder is a series of interlocking clouds and rain.  It is a creative design that perfectly fits the shape of the vessel and uses negative space to accentuate the imagery.  It certainly reflects the creativity of Julian’s artistry. The jar was fired to a silvery black coloration.  It is signed on the bottom, “Marie + Julian”.  It is in very good condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.  The piece was originally purchased at the Chicago Worlds Fair (1933-4) and has been in the family since then. The last two photos are a postcard from the Chicago World’s Fair and one of Maria and Julian in 1937.  It is always great to see such creative early work by Maria and Julian in such good condition!

Maria Martinez Signatures