This is a dynamic jar by Nancy Youngblood.  It is inspired by the imagery of Thunderbirds in both Pueblo and Native culture.  The jar has both a male and female Thunderbird. They are deeply carved into the clay with the wings and body derived from classic melon ribs.  The ribs flow around the jar creating a sense of motion to each of the birds.  They are polished tan, which is one of the most difficult techniques in Santa Clara pottery, as the piece is only polished using water.  The jar has a carmel tan coloration and it is beautifully fired!  Not only is the jar creative in design, but there is the added challenge of firing the piece tan and having such an excellent result. It is signed on the bottom in the clay, “Nancy Youngblood”