Ten-Piece Nacimiento by Seferina Ortiz [SOLD]

When the Nacimientos book was first published in 1979, there were the works of only 15 pueblo potters included, of which there were only 5 from Cochiti Pueblo. Seferina was not one of this group, but was included in the back of the book in a list of three additional potters known for making sets.

Seferina Ortiz was one of the most respected potters at Cochiti. She specialized in making figurines—storytellers, nacimientos, and animal and human figures. We are fortunate to have two of her nacimiento sets in this exhibit.

This set consists of the Holy Family and six animals. It is the animals that are unique in this set. The largest figure is an eagle with his wings wrapped around the front and touching, there is a second bird of similar shape, a skunk, a sheep, a squirrel and a rabbit.

Mary is beautifully outfitted in a traditional pueblo dress over one shoulder and under the other. She wears a shawl on her head and it is beautifully decorated with floral elements. Josephs sports a concha belt, a red headband, and a blanket draped over a shoulder. Baby Jesus rests in a cradle.

The set is signed by the artist, but not dated. It is from the end of the 20^th century, however.