Patricio, Robert – Large Four Color Heartline Deer and Rainbows Jar

11"w x 11"h

$ 1,800.00

This is a large four-color painted water jar by Robert Patricio.  It is a classic Acoma water jar shape with a high shoulder and an elongated neck.  The design combines various traditional Acoma designs into one piece. There are heartline deer on two sides.  This imagery is a classic to both Acoma and Zuni pottery, with the heartline signifying the center, spirit or, “heart” of the animal.  Next to each deer is a plant design and above them are rainbows.  However, it is the dramatic coloration as the jar is turned which is so striking.  Along the neck are feather patterns.  Below is a kiva step design.  Robert then painted rectangular thunder clouds along with a swirling rainbird.  His use of the different colors of red clay gives the jar a very vibrant appearance and they are enhanced by the white of the clay.  The contrasting of the deep red and orange-colored areas on the jar is perfection!. The jar is made from traditional Acoma clay and then painted with bee-weed (black) and two different red clay slips. The base is painted with red clay.  It is signed on the bottom, “R.  M.  Patricio”.  The jar is an exciting extension of his artistry in clay and continuing the amazing Acoma legacy.  The last photo is of Robert next to the jar. 

Robert said recently of his pottery:

““The pottery inspires me to keep going.  Keeping the tradition alive in making pottery, that’s how we were brought up.  Our ancestors started making pottery.  It’s amazing what comes of a piece of clay. When you come to Acoma it’s peacuful and quite.  When you look a piece of pottery, you see the same peacefulness.”   Robert Patricio, 2020