This is an unusual plate by Mark Tahbo.  The plate is recessed with a small rim.  It is fully polished and the center is fully painted. The design has four Hopi birds encircling the piece.  The center square is slipped with the mauve clay he was using at this time. The square styling is similar to that used by Nampeyo of Hano in the painting on the top of her pottery.  Note on the birds and the delicately painted lines.  The plate was traditionally fired and has some great blushes on the surface.  It was painted with bee-weed (black) and then clay slips. The plate is signed on the back rim, “Mark Tahbo” and dated 2002.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration or repair.