This is a highly polished tan melon jar by Nathan Youngblood.  The bowl is deeply carved with 16 symmetrical ribs.  It is fully polished tan.  Did you know that the tan coloration in Santa Clara pottery is one of the most difficult to achieve?  The tan coloration is achieved by adding water to the surface of the dry vessel and then beginning to stone polish.  The film created on the surface becomes the “slip” and the tan is actually the natural color of the clay.  It is VERY difficult to get a high shine to the tan.  As well, during a traditional firing, it is also the riskiest as smoke and ash can easily discolor the surface.  The hoped-for result is an even caramel coloration on the entire surface of the piece.  Nathan is one of only a handful of potters who uses this technique and his are always exceptional. This bowl has perfect coloration and even tonality.  It is even better in person!  It is signed on the bottom in the clay “Nathan Youngblood” and the hallmark of his name in Tewa.