Santa Clara Pueblo Polychrome Floating Seal Figurine [SOLD]

This seal from the Rio Grande was fashioned in clay by Margaret (b.1936) and Luther (1911-1987) Gutierrez, children of Lela and Van Gutierrez.  The siblings worked together for a number of years.  Now, Margaret works alone.

Working together, the siblings continued the polychrome style of painting begun by their parents. Sometimes their work is whimsical and other times it is most elegant. In the case of their animals, humor rules. This beautifully executed seal leans toward the humorous style.  He has his head supported on two of his arms and the legs are hiked up in positions that permitted wonderful designs to be displayed.  There is a frog on one and a hunter on the other. 

The base is signed with both artist's names and the name of the pueblo.  Portions of the name are obliterated but enough remains to determine that both worked on this.

Condition: The seal is in original condition.  There is a stain on the underside where there probably was a price tag at some time, but it did not interfere with the signatures.

Provenance: from the collection of Katherine H. Rust

Recommended Reading:  Fourteen Families in Pueblo Pottery by Rick Dillingham