Shirley “Cactus Blossom” Tafoya was famous for her miniature pottery.  Each piece is coil built, stone polished, and traditionally fired.  This canteen has small handles and it is fully polished.  One side has impressed bear paw.  The shape of the canteen is much like those made by her mother, Margaret Tafoya.  The stopper is wood and was carved by Shirley and attached with a leather strap.  Shirley was so wonderfully talented and her miniatures were among the most refined for their size and appearance.  This piece is signed, “Shirley Cactus Blossom Tafoya”.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.