This is a complex larger jar by Robert Patricio.  He is known for his classic forms and use of both traditional and pre-historic imagery.  This jar is coil-built and thin-walled. The shape has a very round form with an elongated neck.  The shape was inspired by a similar form from Chaco Canyon (see last photo), as well as pieces by Marie Z. Chino.  Robert said that it was difficult to create such a round form as he was building the piece.  The result, however, is a striking shape.  The jar is fully designed with two large basket medallions on each side.  They are separated by cloud, lightning, and rain patterns.  The jar has a wide variety of geometric forms and shapes that interconnect as the piece is turned.  They are varied from black to white, and with thin, fine-lines.  The neck of the jar is also fully painted with three rows of feather patterns.  The jar was painted with bee-weed (black).  The jar is exceptionally complex in design!  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”.

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