Cochiti Pueblo Storyteller Turtle with 3 Children [SOLD]

Following the creation of the Cochiti Pueblo Storyteller figurine by Helen Cordero in 1964, her entire family joined in the process within a few years.  By the late 1970s, Helen's son, George Cordero; her daughter, Antonita (Tony) Cordero; her grandchildren, Tim Cordero (who lived in Tuba City and spent the summers at Cochiti with his grandmother), Kevin Peshlakai and Buffy Cordero; her son-in-law Del Trancosa from San Felipe, and her foster daughters-in-law, Kathy Trujillo and Mary Trujillo all were making storyteller figurines.

Antonita Cordero married Del Trancosa and now lives at San Felipe Pueblo.  I do not know if she is still actively making pottery.  This "Mother Turtle" figurine was made in the 1980s.

According to Helen Cordero, a Cochiti legend states that in time of turmoil or trouble, Mother Turtle will come to the pueblo and rescue the children. She demonstrated this in her turtle figurines with children on their backs. As far as I know, she was the first potter to transform this legend into visible art.  Most of her family members have made them since that time.

Three children cling to each other as they ride on the back of the turtle comfortably resting on a simulated saddle blanket.  From their clothing, it appears to be three young boys. 

Condition: Original excellent condition

Provenance: Albuquerque collector of pueblo pottery

Recommended Reading: The Pueblo Storyteller by Barbara Babcock