This is a classic long neck jar by LuAnn Tafoya.  She is known for her highly polished traditional Santa Clara pottery.  This jar is one of her famous shapes with a round shoulder and elongated neck.  I think, having worked with LuAnn for so many years, it was always one of her favorite shapes to make.  It was difficult to make a piece so round and the neck so straight!  However, when finished, it is simply elegant.  The neck and base are fully polished. The center has a carved band. The design has a mesa and rain pattern.  LuAnn said about this design:

“Me, I carve after it’s all dry.  My dad told me about the water waves and mountain designs.  The design is the kiva steps and the raindrops. The line carved around the bottom is the “path” of the design. That’s how we were taught. Going to the kiva we go up the stairs. When you are in there you pray for rain. The path, it’s always on the pot, too. “  LuAnn Tafoya, Spoken Through Clay

The jar is highly polished and fired a rich red coloration.  LuAnn is one of the few potters making pieces of such quality and historic continuity.  The jar is signed on the bottom in the clay, “LuAnn Tafoya”.   It is an exceptional example of her skill, creativity, and commitment to traditional Santa Clara pottery.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.  Definitely a piece of history in clay!

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