Santa Clara Red Sgraffito Dish with Bear Design [SOLD]

Haungooah was the grandson of the famous Kiowa medicine man and scout James Haungooah, also known as Silverhorn (1861-1941). The first Haungooah became famous in the 19th century for his fantastic ledger drawings of life on the Southern Plains.

The second Haungooah married a Santa Clara woman, Martha Suazo, in 1972. She was a potter and encouraged him to decorate them for her. He became an outstanding decorator of miniature pottery. He was one of the early artists to perfect the sgraffito style of carving.

In 1979, Pierre Cardin recognized him and his wife, Martha, for their artistic excellence. The famous French designer organized a European tour, which showcased their work.

Haungooah met with tragedy when a head-on automobile collision took his life.

This exquisite dish features the modern-style bear in the center of a celestial constellation.  Bears are considered medicine men in pueblo culture and important animals that have the capability to find water when it is not readily viewable.  It is no wonder that Haungooah elevated the bear to a celestial being.  The vines surrounding the edge of the dish have a symbolic design of a Caesar-like crown.  Only the artist knows the true intentions of the design but that does not stop one from speculating.

Condition:  original excellent condition

Provenance: from an Albuquerque gentleman