Montoya, Florentino & Martina – Large Fineline Jar (1905-10)

12.5"w x 10"h

$ 15,000.00

This is an extraordinary large jar by Florentino & Martina Montoya from around 1910.  Johnathan Batkin wrote about them, “The pottery of this husband and wife team is that of artist and innovators who introduced new materials and techniques to other potters. Martina’s experimentation with shapes and slips, and Florintino’s distinctive painting style facilitate the identification of many of their pots. [They] were active during a period of change in San Ildefonso pottery.”  I have included them in our “Early San Ildefonso Innovators” Show as they are the precursors to the changes and innovations in the 1920’s.  Looking at this jar, is is inspiring in the size, shape and designs.  The jar is thin walled and perfectly formed.  However, as with much of the San Ildefonso pottery, it is the shape which is so extraordinary.  The varied designs as the jar is turned is a hallmark of Florentino. The fineline hatchmark patterns along with the delicate plant swirls are almost unexpected on this large jar.  There is so little repetition that each quarter turn seems to evoke a new jar.  It was pottery like this jar which inspired these Early San Ildefonso Innovators.  Maria and other noted that Florentino was one of the finest painters they knew. His early passing during the influenza epidemic, along with so many others, changed the world of San Ildefonso.  This jar is unsigned but easily attributed to Florentino and Martina by shape and design.  I’ve been pleased that numerous other experts, beyond myself (I won’t claim extensive expertise here) all agree that this is one of their classic and more refined vessels.  It is in very good condition with no cracks, restoration or repair.  There are few small rim chips, but nothing unexpected with its age or size.  Simply said, historically important and a classic!

Click here to read more about the “Early San Ildefonso Innovators”