Exceptional Buff-on-red Plate by Maria and Popovi [SOLD]

This beautiful buff-on-red plate was created by San Ildefonso Pueblo artists Maria Martinez and Popovi Da. It dates to the 1950s, when it was purchased directly from Maria by a California-based art dealing couple named Bob and Louise Sluder. They kept the piece in their personal collection and eventually passed it on to their descendants. It was one of the Sluders' favorite pieces, and it is easy to see why.

The plate's form is outstanding; it is balanced and even with a gentle curve inward. Some might call it a "shallow bowl," and that would certainly be appropriate. Its rim is smoothly and consistently rounded. The front of the plate is highly polished; the back is smooth but not reflective, with a pair of beautiful fire clouds floating behind and around the artists' signatures.

The design is a particularly strong execution of the traditional feather design, in buff over the polished red slip, with three circular lines around the exterior. Popovi had a keen eye for strong designs, even when working with simple interpretations of traditional elements. Here, he used an established design element and managed to make it his own through precise, stylish work. The buff and red tones work together beautifully, and the piece is impressive by any measure. This is a rare find, and an excellent example of Maria and Popovi collaborative work.

The back of the plate is signed Maria / Popovi. It is not dated, which suggests that it dates to the mid-50s when Maria and Popovi were signing together but not adding dates to their signatures.

Maria Martinez (1887-1980) and Popovi Da (1922-1971) were, individually and as a duo, two of the most influential pueblo potters. The period from 1956 to 1970 is recognized as the strongest period of collaborative creativity and genius by this talented team. Popovi's wife, Anita, stated that "He was a born artist. Because of his high standards—seeking perfection in his material, in craftsmanship, and in design—his output was limited. Other factors in the limited output were his desire to further his mother's work; time spent working for the welfare of his people; and public appearances as an internationally known ceramist and watercolor artist" (Spivey 2003). Popovi worked with Maria in all aspects of pottery preparation, and their pieces were co-signed. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1971. It was at that time that Maria retired.

Condition: excellent condition, two small abrasions concealed by a restoration artist

Provenance: this Exceptional Buff-on-red Plate by Maria and Popovi was purchased directly from Maria by Bob and Louise Sluder, dealers/collectors who were active from the mid-50s through the 90s. Kept in the Sluders' personal collection until now.

Reference: Maria by Richard L. Spivey, 1979

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