Linda Tafoya-Sanchez is a granddaughter of noted potter Margaret Tafoya and she is known for her carved pottery.  This large jar has a kiva step-carved rim.  The top of the shoulder has a feather design.  They alternate from polished to slipped with mica.  There are 54 feathers.  The contrast of coloration with the mica helps accentuate the feather pattern.  Also, take a closer look at each feather, as they are very tightly cut into the clay and the lines are amazingly straight!  Linda was among the first Santa Clara potters to begin using the mica as a design element after she was given some by her San Juan Pueblo in-laws.  On the side of the bowl is a carved elk. The elk is sculptural in style and fully polished. The remainder of the bowl is fully polished.  It was fired a deep, glassy black.  The jar is signed on the bottom, “Linda Tafoya-Oyenque”.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.