Cochiti Pueblo Female Storyteller with 3 Children [R]

It has been estimated that over 300 potters from all New Mexico Pueblos make storyteller figurines today. That has been the development since the first one was made over 45 years ago. From a simple idea in the mind of a single potter has grown a cottage industry supporting many families.

In the first decade following the creation of the storyteller figurine by Helen Cordero, only about 8 potters at Cochiti were producing the figurines. It was these 8 potters that we featured in our first Storyteller Exhibit in the early 1980s. Among them was Seferina Ortiz. She is one of the earliest potters and long-lasting potters to make storyteller figurines.

Since Seferina passed away in 2007, it has been difficult for us to acquire pottery figurines made by her because most collectors who have them are keeping them since they cannot be replaced. It is therefore a pleasure for us to be able to post this one to our site at this time.

The adult is dressed in traditional pueblo clothing and has her hair tied in back in the chonga style.  She is clutching three children—two boys and one girl—in her arms.  The artist's name, S. Ortiz Cochiti, N.M., is painted on the underside. 

Condition:  excellent condition

Provenance:  ex Adobe Gallery, 2005, from the artist

                       ex collection of a California collector

Recommended Reading: The Pueblo Storyteller by Barbara Babcock