Polychrome Jar with Black on Cream Design [SOLD]

This polychrome olla, circa 1940, with the traditional rag-wiped bentonite slip, black rim around the top rolling over the edge, and black double framing lines separating the base from the white slip is decorated in extremely bold design elements, which appear to float on the surface. The interior neck has been rag wiped with a red slip as has the underbody.

According to Batkin (see reference), the unpublished notes of Kenneth Chapman recorded that this design was invented by a potter, with the surname of Garcia, between 1905 and 1910. Most assuredly, he was referring to Felipita Aguilar Garcia, one of the two sisters who supplied Mr. Seligman of the Bernalillo Mercantile Co., with pottery of this shape and style for his clients. Apparently, Santo Domingo potter Monica Silva re-introduced this design in the 1930s or 1940s, and it has been associated with her since that time.

The jar is in excellent structural condition. There was surface damage to the slip and design areas that has been professionally restored by replacing missing slip and repainting missing design elements. The extent of the restoration is documented on photographs and will be available for viewing, if requested.

Monica Silva (Photograph Source Unknown)