Jean Sahme is a daughter of noted potter Priscilla Nampeyo and a descendant of Nampeyo of Hano. This water jar has a high shoulder and a turned-out rim. Around the neck, there is a stylized hummingbird design.  The body of the jar has a a classic spider design.  It is repeated on both sides of the jar.  The story of the spider design is:

“In Hopi, Spider Woman assumes the role of the creator of all living things, including humans.  She is also called “Spider Grandmother” (Hopi Kokyangwuti), or “Gogyeng Sowuhti”.  She can take the shape of an old, or timeless woman or the shape of a common spider in many Hopi stories. When she is in her spider shape, she lives underground in a hole that is like a Kiva. When she is called upon, she will help people in many ways, such as giving advice or providing medicinal cures. “Spider Grandmother” is seen as a leader, a wise individual who represents good things

The jar was painted with bee-weed (black) and polished red areas.  It was traditionally fired to create the blushes on the surface.  It is signed on the bottom with an ear of corn (for Corn Clan, and that ‘Sahme’ means corn) and a fish.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.  There is a polaroid of Jean holding the jar.  While Jean no longer makes pottery, there is wonderful creativity in each of her pieces!