This is a classic jar by Jeff Roller.  He creates exceptional traditional pottery.  Not only is there remarkable attention to the crisp carved lines in his work, but an evenness to his stone-polished surfaces. In addition to his distinctive sculptural additions to his pottery, he creates something unique in Santa Clara pottery.  This jar is coil-built, carved, polished and traditionally fired black. The jar has a thunder design around the neck of the piece.  Around the sides are swirling clouds in a geometric style.  The jar has a buffalo lid that is sculpted from Santa Clara clay.  The buffalo is a larger lid and it is fully carved and highly detailed.  It is amazing what he is able to create using native clay!  The lid is matte in contrast to the polished jar.  It is stunning in person!  The jar is signed on the bottom in the clay, “Jeff Roller”.

Brand

Roller, Jeff (b. 1963)

Jeff Roller is known for both his pottery and sculpting abilities. He learned to make pottery from his mother, Toni Roller, and he is also a grandson of noted potter, Margaret Tafoya (1904-2001). He continues to make traditional pottery and there is remarkable attention to the crisp carved lines in his work as well as an evenness to his stone polished surfaces. Jeff has won numerous awards at Santa Fe Indian Market and the Heard Indian Fair for his pottery. His work continues to evolve with more complicated forms and detailed animals.