Grace Medicine Flower is one of the masterful potters of Santa Clara Pueblo.  She began with sgraffito (etching) technique in her pottery around 1970 and was always creative in her forms and designs.  This is one of her few black pieces that is fully carved and etched. The bowl is carved with prayer feather, cloud and pueblo bird designs. There are two medallions which have been etched with hummingbird and flower designs.  It has been traditionally fired to achieve the black coloration. The contrast of the polished and matte surfaces, along with the carved and sgraffito techniques give it a distinctive and unique appearance.  Note as well how she carved the rim to accent the designs!  That is a difficult technique in that the rim could always crack during carving, polishing or firing!  The bowl is from around 2002.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.  While Grace has now retired from pottery,her work remains elegant and stunning!