Cochiti Pueblo 11-piece Nacimiento [SOLD]

According to the earliest collectors, the first Indian-made Nativities appeared in the late 1950s. Into the early 1960s, only three or four artisans on an occasional basis engaged in the craft. It accelerated in the late 1960s and swelled to the proportions of a movement in the late 1970s.

Louis Naranjo made nativity sets, or nacimientos, with pueblo figures and wild animals. Here, Joseph and Mary are dressed in traditional pueblo clothing, the Three Kings are in traditional pueblo clothing and bear gifts of a watermelon, a squash, and a blanket. The animals are an antelope, moose, fox, ram, and a bear.

Louis, and his wife, Virginia, is included in the Monthan’s book Nacimientos: Nativity Scenes by Southwest Indian Artisans which was published in 1979.  They state that Louis started making nacimientos around 1970 so he was part of the movement that occurred at that time. Nacimientos, in fact figures of all kinds, by Louis are among the most collected by those who like figurative pottery.  His pottery is much appreciated because he was technically good at the craft and he had a wonderful sense of humor which he incorporated into his work.

This set is signed only with the name of Louis Naranjo.  Some of their pottery is co-signed Louis and Virginia Naranjo, Cochiti Pueblo.  Louis and Virginia are included in the Nacimiento book but none of their work is illustrated. 

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: from the collection of a family from Kansas who has downsized to a smaller home and no longer has room for its extensive collection of pottery.             

Recommended Reading: Nacimientos: Nativity Scenes by Southwest Indian Artisans by Guy and Doris Monthan