Signed Marie + Julian Black-on-black Jar c. 1930

This Black-on-black pottery jar was created by Maria and Julian Martinez of San Ildefonso Pueblo, a husband-and-wife duo renowned for revolutionizing Pueblo pottery making. Maria expertly formed and polished the vessel, while Julian applied the striking matte-painted designs, resulting in a seamless fusion of their artistic talents. Their discovery in 1918 of the Black-on-black firing technique — where a smothered outdoor firing created a rich black finish — transformed Pueblo pottery and cemented their legacy in the art world.

Dating to around 1930, this black pottery jar is a fine example of their collaborative work. It features a traditional Tewa form, resembling a small olla, or water jar, with a gracefully balanced profile where the base and opening share the same width and the shoulder rests perfectly at the midpoint. The surface is adorned with a masterfully painted stepped and wing design, repeated twice around the neck, demonstrating Julian's precise artistry. The jar is in excellent condition, with only a few minor scratches typical of pieces from this period, and no significant damage or restoration.

Signed Marie + Julian on the bottom, this jar is a testament to the enduring artistry of Maria and Julian Martinez. Their work continues to be celebrated in museums and collections worldwide, marking a significant chapter in the history of Native American pottery.

Condition: excellent condition with one small abrasion on the rim and two surface abrasions on the neck.

Provenance: This Signed Marie + Julian Black-on-black Jar c. 1930 is from a collector in North Carolina

Recommended Reading: The Legacy of Maria Poveka Martinez by Richard L. Spivey.

TAGS: Pueblo Pottery, San Ildefonso Pueblo, Popovi Da, Santana and Adam Martinez, Julian Martinez