Isleta Storyteller Figurine of Diné Female with 13 Children [SOLD]

This storyteller figurine was created by Isleta Pueblo potter Stella Teller. It is a depiction of a Diné of the Navajo Nation woman with 13 children. This is a multi-generational group—one of the figures holds her own infant in her hands, mirroring the larger scene as she provides guidance and care to the young one. Certain children huddle up in groups or pairs while others forge their own paths as they attempt to scale their elder.

Stella Teller (1929- ) is an exceptionally skilled potter, and her work here is excellent in every way. The primary figure is rich in detail, with the welcome addition of a sash belt and traditional Diné hairstyle. The many smaller figures recall those that appear on earlier Cochiti storytellers. The primary figure and a few of the smaller figures wear turquoise necklaces, and a crisp white string serves as a hair tie.

Stella used brown and purplist pigment tones over a white slip. Her work becomes quite detailed in the sash and blanket's designs, which display intricate geometric patterns. Corn designs appear at the bottom of the woman's skirt, which spreads out into a circle and serves as the base of the piece. This piece is a stylish, inventive update of the storyteller figurine, made by one of the most creative Isleta Pueblo potters.

Condition: very good condition, some light abrasions to pigment

Provenance: this Isleta Storyteller Figurine of Diné Female with 13 Children is from a private collection, previously sold by Adobe Gallery

Recommended Reading: The Pueblo Storyteller: Development of a Figurative Ceramic Tradition by Barbara Babcock Ph.D.

TAGS: figurines, Isleta Pueblo, pottery, Navajo, Apache, Hopi, Chris, Mona, Robin, Stella Teller