Tafoya, Margaret – Large “Gourd” Jar (1950’s)

9"w x 6"h

$ 4,000.00

This is a striking jar by Margaret Tafoya is from the 1950s.  It is one of our favorite shapes that she made.  It is called a “gourd” jar.  The name comes from the small gourd “shards” that are used to smooth the inside of the pottery when it is being made. The shape of these pieces of the gourd is similar in shape to the indentions on the shoulder of the piece.  They are also technically difficult as the indentions are areas pushed into the clay.  There are sixteen gourd intentions on this jar.  The indentions are more vertical than some of the gourds, so it also has the feel of a melon jar.  Typical of Margaret’s pottery, they are at the shoulder, so they create the most reflection of the light.  Of course, the entire piece has to be polished at one time which adds to the difficulty in the piece. This jar is highly polished and has a beautiful shine.  The additional highlight of the shape is how the various curves on the surface reflect the light.  The jar is in very good condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.  This jar is signed on the bottom in the clay, “Margaret Tafoya”.  I date this piece to the late 1950s not only from the signature but the light weight of the clay.  Definitely a great piece of history by this important Pueblo potter!

 The Story of the Gourd Pot  “Remember the story about the gourd.  The gourd was asking Mother Clay, why she was just used for shaping the pottery. Why was she not given her own design? So she was allowed to create her own design.  That’s why we have this shape, with the flat sides.”  Mary Esther Archuleta