San Ildefonso Pueblo Black-on-black Jar by Popovi [R]

Popovi Da is best known as a collaborator with his mother, Maria Martinez. Starting in 1956, Popovi worked with Maria in all aspects of pottery preparation and their pieces were co-signed. It was his intent to assist his mother and not to take away from her attention that kept him from making pottery on his own. It is rare to find pieces signed solely Popovi, without Maria's name too.

According to Spivey, the first piece of pottery made solely by Popovi and signed only with his name appeared in 1962. He further states, "Few such pieces were made, and they are now considered rare collector's items."  Anita, Popovi's wife, said that Popovi would have made more pottery if he had had more time but he was a pueblo governor, a leader of the tribe, a father, was running a store at the pueblo and painting pottery for his mom.  He also dug clay for his mom when Adam was not available.  It is amazing that Popovi found time to make any pottery.

This jar by Popovi is signed and dated 11/65. It is decorated with the eagle feather design on the upper half of the body and left without decoration on the lower half and neck. It is in original condition with only a very few minor blemishes as would be expected on a piece that is almost 50 years old.  This jar was purchased directly from Popovi at his studio at the pueblo on June 15, 1967 for a price of $47.50.  The original receipt accompanies the jar.

This is an excellent opportunity for any collector of contemporary pottery to add a significant piece to his or her collection.  In looking back over our records, it is noted that we have had only 4 pottery items by Popovi in the past 12 years.

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