This is a large storage jar-shaped vessel by Margaret Tafoya. It is one of few carved melon jars she made in the 1960s.  There was a swirling rib one that was featured in my book, “Born of Fire”.  This is only the fourth melon ribbed jar I have seen of hers at this size, including one that is in the permanent collection of the Heard Museum.  This jar is one of Margaret’s classic shapes with a high shoulder and slight neck.  However, what makes this very unusual besides the size, is the surface, which is designed with a series of melon ribs.  There are 12 ribs carved into the clay.  There is a striking symmetry to each of the ribs and the recessed area between them.  The ribs actually create a lot of additional surface area for polishing.  This jar is fully stone-polished.  The plainware vessels are always among the most difficult to polish, as they must be fully polished at one time or the slip will dry.  Margaret did not make many of these melon rib jars at this size.  The jar is in very good condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair. The jar is highly polished and traditionally fired.  It is signed on the bottom in the clay, “Margaret Tafoya”.  Definitely an iconic piece of her pottery!