Cochiti Male Storyteller with 3 Kids [SOLD]

Frances Naranjo Suina was born at San Ildefonso Pueblo as Frances Roybal in 1902. She was orphaned before age one. She attended St. Catherine’s Orphanage, Santa Fe, then St. Catherine’s Indian School, Santa Fe, and then Cochiti Pueblo School.

Her first husband was a Naranjo, thus the surname of her son, Louis Naranjo of Cochiti Pueblo. Her second husband was a Suina.

She made pottery during the Great Depression of the 1930s, using all traditional materials and techniques, a process she continued throughout her life. She was recognized as one of the finest potters at Cochiti.

Her pottery figurines are truly wonderful pieces of folk art. She had a knack for creating figurines with humorous expressions that evoke a smile from the viewer. Her pieces are relatively rare today because she has been gone for so many years.

This male storyteller has a face of wisdom and the children reflect their respect for him and his stories.  The adult wears a button shirt over which is a black vest.  His hair is tied in a traditional chonga in the back, he has a head band and traditional moccasins.  The children are dressed as two boys and one girl.

Condition: excellent condition