Russell Sanchez continues to be one of the true innovators in Pueblo pottery.  Each piece is perfectly coil-built, stone polished, and etched.  This bear is one of his classic shapes.  This bear is exceptional with the very deep red coloration from the slip.  Around 2005 Russell rediscovered the deep red clay slip which was used at San Ildefonso in the 1920s and 30s.  It is an extraordinary and rich coloration!  This bear is fully polished but has matte areas on the legs. The back is deeply carved with three sharp ridges and slipped with black micaceous clay. There are two inset pieces of Kingman spiderweb Turquoise on the back of the bear.  Note as well the carved heartline which extends out from the mouth of the bear. The bear is a symbol of strength and the heartline is a traditional image used to symbolize the heart as the center of power in the animal.  The bear is hollow as the piece is coil built.  It is signed on the bottom, “Russell”.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.  Stunning!