Mark Tahbo is known not just for his painted pottery, but especially for the blushes on his pottery.  This jar is from 2001.  It is one of his largest plainware pieces that I remember him finishing.  The shape of this jar is exceptional, as there is a slight edge below the shoulder where he started it in the puki.  Then it extends out to the shoulder and rounds into the neck.  The piece is vertically polished to create an “onion-skin” appearance.  It was then outdoor fired to create the coloration.  Mark was masterful at firing and always wanted to achieve dramatic blushes on the surface of his pottery.  When they turned out with variations like on this jar, from white to deep orange, he was the most pleased.   Mark told me about his plainware work:

“My first plainware pieces were done years ago. I was sure that these would be well received and gallery owner Charles King took a chance with them. They were an immediate hit!  I don’t do very much plainware for it has to be flawless.  The surface has to be free of all dips or air holes and the shape has to be elegant on its own, as there is no design to distract the eye.  The colors achieved on the pots are truly amazing.  Each piece is fired outdoors using sheep dung and coals.  I love it!”

The jar is signed on the bottom “Mark Tahbo” and a pipe for his “Tobacco Clan”.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.  Definitely a classic of his pottery!