Polychrome Stew Bowl from Zia Pueblo [SOLD]

Candelaria Medina Gachupin (1908-1997), Zia Pueblo, was a mid- to late-20th century potter and was the mother of Dora Tse·Pe of San Ildefonso Pueblo. There is not a single example of Gachupin’s pottery in the School for Advanced Research (SAR) in Santa Fe and but only one in the Museum of Indian Art and Culture (MIAC).  (Harlow & Lanmon) This may not seem significant at this time, but a hundred years from now, it would be a shame that there were not more potters of the 20th century represented in these fine museums.

In checking over our records, we find that we have had only two pots by Gachupin in the last 15 years. Perhaps they are relatively rare. I understand that Dora does have several examples of her mom’s work in her personal collection.

This bowl is typical of Zia pottery in vessel shape and construction techniques. The designs of capped feathers and rain clouds are also typical.  The interior of the bowl is stone polished red clay, as is the bottom of the bowl.  The design encircles the exterior of the bowl, framed by a pair of framing lines at the rim and another pair near the base.  The rim is brown.  The bowl is signed with the name of the artist and pueblo.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance:  from the estate of the former Chief Sunny Skies Trading Post which was located on the main street in Carlsbad, New Mexico, for over 40 years and was closed in 1977.  Chief Sunny Sky, whose name was Clyde Hunt, was from Acoma Pueblo.  He was the son of Chief Big Snake (Edward Hunt) also of Acoma Pueblo.  This collection has remained in the family since the trading post was closed in 1977.

Recommended Reading: The Pottery of Zia Pueblo by Harlow and Lanmon