Maria Martinez Pot

Maria Martinez (1887-1980) is arguably the most famous potter that ever lived. Maria learned the art of pottery making from her aunt. Inspired by ancient pottery sherds left behind by her ancestors, Maria and her husband Julian revived lost techniques to create some of the finest Pueblo pottery ever made. Maria is known the world over for the "gun-metal" finish she achieved with her blackware by her polishing techniques. She rose to a status and acclaim never before nor since achieved by any Pueblo potter. She worked with her husband Juan, who created all the painted designs until his death. After Julian passed, their son, Popovi Da (1922-1971),painted designs for the pottery his mother created. This black-on-black pottery plate is decorated with an Avanyu design. This is a one of a kind item which has been hand-coiled and hand-painted and hand polished. This bowl is signed on the bottom. “Marie” Maria signed her early bowls with “Marie” she didn’t want people to think she was mexican. She signed her pots 9 different ways during her life.

Condition: Very good for age, some sign of wear, a few scratches, great paint, the painting at that time was done by Julian.

Circa: 1935-1940