This is an exceptional large carved jar by Margaret Tafoya.  It is from the 1950’s and it is featured on page 12 of the book, Born of Fire.  The jar is an elegant form with a wide, round shoulder and sloping neck. The entire jar is fully polished.  However, it is not the shape or size which makes it exceptional, it is the carved band of design.  Most likely this jar was designed by Margaret’s husband, Alcario.  He was known as one of the best pottery designers at the Pueblo and withing the Tafoya family.  His designs are renowned for their complexity and his innate ability to match form and design.  This jar has a design which is varied around the entire surface.  Rain clouds lead to rain which lead to the mountains which transform into the kiva steps.  It is a beautiful story and in terms of the complexity, it is possible to see how influential he was in the work of his grandson, Nathan Youngblood, as well as others.  The polishing and firing on this large jar are visually striking, as it has a very glassy appearance. The jar is in exceptional condition, which is not always the case for such large vessels from the 1950’s.  It is signed on the bottom in the clay, “Margaret Tafoya”.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.