This is a classic large storage jar by Mela Youngblood.  She was a daughter of Margaret Tafoya and began making pottery in the late 1960s.  She quickly achieved a distinctive style for her work.  Each piece of her work was coil-built, carved, and stone polished.  This large storage jar is from 1974.  It has a high shoulder and a short neck. The jar is carved around the center with 42 feathers.  The linear style of the feathers accentuates the bold shape of the jar.  The top and bottom sections, along with the feathers, are all stone-polished to a high shine. The jar was traditionally fired black. It is in very good condition with no chips, cracks, restoration, or repair.  It is signed on the bottom, “Mela Youngblood”.  It is always amazing to come across such substantial and importnat pieces by amazing potters such as Mela!