Daryl Whitegeese is known for his use of classic Santa Clara forms and his amazing polished surfaces.  This jar is was inspired by a black-on-black jar by Daryl’s grandmother, Margaret Tafoya (see last photo).   The jar by Margaret is from the 1930s and has a very unusually painted avanyu with the tail over the head.  Daryl created a similar style of design on his jar, which is carved into the clay.  The body of the avanyu has cloud and rain designs.  The carving on the jar has edges that almost feel sharp to the touch! The jar is polished a deep red and has been traditionally fired.  The jar is signed on the bottom in the clay, “Daryl Whitegeese”.  It is a striking combination of history, carving, shape, and polish!