Virgil Ortiz is known for his innovative style of Cochiti pottery, inspired by the Monos figures of the 1880’s.  This is one of his traditional clay figures made from native clay and painted with native clays and wild spinach (black).  The figure has been traditionally fired.  The Monos figures were originally created as objects of social criticism and reflection.  Virgil continues on this same path in his contemporary work.  This figure is highly detailed with sun, mountain and wildflower patterns around the entire body.  There is always something fun and almost mischiveous on the faces of Virgil’s figures.  Note how deeply the black fired on this piece!  The earrings are also traditional red clay and added after the firing. It is signed on the bottom.