This is one of the largest pieces we have seen by Jimmy Wilson (b. 1935).  He is from Leupp, Arizona, and from the Naakaii dine-e Clan (Wandering).  He began making pottery in 1974-5 and learned from Faye Tso, who is a clan relative. This large jar is coil-built with a round shoulder, handles, and an elongated neck.  Around the neck, there are two raised bands.  One has a cloud design and the other has rain.  Across the body of the jar are incised Rainbow Yei Figures.  The incised designs are cut into clay.

“The Rainbow Yei is a symbol of protection and the pathway of the Yeis. The “Yei” is a healing spirit that intercedes between the Creator and humans and controls the sun, moon, wind, and rain. A rainbow yei is most often seen encircling traditional sandpaintings to protect the image from evil spirits.”

The jar was traditionally fired and the coloration from the firing is striking!  The colorations range from black to dark brown.  After the firing, the jar was covered in pinon-pitch after the firing.  It is signed on the bottom in the clay, “Jimmy Wilson”.  It is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.  Today Jimmy makes almost no pottery, but his work remains creative and distinctive.