Cochiti Pueblo Storyteller with 14 Children by Helen Cordero [SOLD]

Everyone knows that Helen Cordero made the first storyteller figurine in 1964 as a tribute to her grandfather who was a storyteller at the pueblo. Alexander Girard, the great folk art collector, encouraged her to create more by purchasing all she made in the early days.

Since the figurine was in tribute to her grandfather, all of her storyteller figurines are male. She never made a female storyteller. Her female figurines are called other names, such as Singing Mother. Cordero used to say that the other potters who made female storyteller figurines didn’t understand her intent.

This figurine is a testament to Cordero’s talent. It is beautifully sculpted and painted. Some of the children have their hands over their eyes as if the story being told is scary. Some of the children appear to be crying while others appear to be asleep. Four of the children cling to the back of the adult, four sit on his shoulders, one in his arm, and five on his legs.

The adult is wearing a nugget necklace that was very popular in the 19th century, and a simple collar to his shirt. The children all appear to be boys.

The figurine has a marvelous patina that fits with its age. It dates to the early 1980s. It is signed Helen Cordero Cochiti, N Mex. It is in excellent condition. The facial features are very traditionally those mastered by Cordero. Note the detail in the children’s clothing. Cordero was not known for rushing a figurine to completion, rather she tended to pay attention to detail.

Condition: The figurine is in original excellent condition with only some very minor spalling of the clay.

Provenance: ex. coll. Phoenix, AZ pueblo pottery collector.