Robert Patricio is known for his classic forms and use of both traditional and pre-historic imagery.  This is a large classic water jar with a high shoulder and elongated neck. The jar is entitled, ‘Birth of the Butterfly”.  On the sides, there are butterflies painted with fine-line wings, emerging from their cocoons.  Below them are plant designs.  Above them are a variety of cloud and rain designs.  Separating the butterflies are small rainclouds, again with thin lines in the center.  The jar has two different colors of clay used to paint the designs along with the black (bee-weed)  The rim of the jar has star patterns.  As usual, Robert paints with precision and his use of the open, white space of the clay surface to accentuate his lines and designs is impressive on this larger jar!  The base of the jar is slipped red.  Robert is certainly one of the leading traditional Acoma potters working today which is evidenced by his stunning forms and complementary designs.  The jar is signed on the bottom, “R. M. Patricio”.