This is an exceptional larger box by Russell Sanchez.  The shape is inspired by the historic San Ildefonso boxes from the 1920’s.  Here, Russell has furthered the connection to the historic pieces with his focus on the polychrome coloration.  The red is a very deep coloration and the same deep red as used in the 1920’s!  The black areas are a black micaceous clay which he has polished.  When the red or black areas are etched away, they leave exposed clay, which is tan in coloration. That creates the polychrome coloration, which are the same three tonalities used in early San Ildefonso pottery. The sides of the box have bear medallions etched into the red clay.  Each bear has an inset piece of turquoise.  They are surrounded by a band of hei-shi beads.  On the sides, there are rain clouds in a matte red and each has an inset piece of hematite.  It is the top of the box which a unique variation for Russell. The top is polished red and there is a circular band of matte tan which is painted with the matte black.  Russell shaped the bear on this box so that the beet were closer together, giving the piece a more sculptural appearance.  The back of the bear is inset with turquoise and hei-shi beads.  The black polished mica on this piece turned out perfectly with a deep black/brown coloration.  The interior of the box is slipped with micaceous clay.  The box is traditionally fired outside and the box and lid are both signed in the clay on the bottom.