This is large Kiva Bowl by Margaret Tafoya.  It is from the 1940’s. The bowl is unusual for its size and shape.  The “kiva” is an underground ceremonial room, and there is a ladder out of the top.  The representation of the kiva in Santa Clara pottery is the three step shape carved on the rim of the bowl.  iva bowl are always difficult to make with the carved rim, which can crack in drying as well as in firing.  Adding to the complexity of the bowl is that is fully polished on both the inside and outside!  Amazing that it didn’t crack when polishing, as all the additional wet slip can seep through and cause cracks. The bowl is highly polished and striking in appearance.   It is signed on the bottom in the clay, “Margaret Tafoya”.  It is in very excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.