Hopi Polychrome Seed Jar with Exquisite Fine-line Design [R]

Sylvia Naha was the daughter of Helen and Archie Naha, and the granddaughter of Paqua Naha. Paqua was the first Frog Woman, and Helen, the first Feather Woman. After Helen Naha passed away, her daughter Sylvia inherited the title of Feather Woman. Sylvia passed away in August of 1999, at the age of 48. She signed her pottery with a feather and the initial S.

This is one of the most intricately decorated seed pots imaginable.  One half of the surface is decorated with segments of fine lines and cross lines—some in circles, some in other geometric shapes.  Interspersed between some of the fine line designs are black and orange figural elements.  One of the elements is a turtle with a fine line body decoration.

The other half of the surface is simply and elegantly displayed with a stylized corn plant and a lizard with a highly decorated body; both over a mottled slip that reminds one of desert sand. 

Sylvia Naha was an excellent potter whose life was cut short.  She achieved fame while living and was able to enjoy her work and accomplishments and the appreciation of collectors.

Condition: The jar is in excellent condition.

Provenance: from an Albuquerque gentleman.

Recommended Reading: Hopi-Tewa Pottery 500 Artist Biographies