Small Historic Hopi Bowl by Matriarch Nampeyo of Hano [SOLD]

This charming historic Hopi bowl by Nampeyo stands 2-½ inches tall with a 7-inch diameter, embodying her remarkable blend of skill and whimsical creativity. Expertly molded, it features four sets of paired raindrop designs on the rim—a signature characteristic of Nampeyo's work. The piece also includes a distinctive "lug handle," a small loop-shaped projection that combines practical utility, such as aiding in carrying or hanging, with Nampeyo's artistic flair, enhancing the bowl's unique appeal.

The interior design showcases a playful variation of a katsina face with hanging sash ends, rendered in dark pigments on a white slip. This whimsical motif highlights Nampeyo's ability to reinterpret traditional Hopi symbols through her imaginative lens. The reinforced rim, thicker on the interior and flaring outward slightly on the exterior, is a hallmark of her pottery, reflecting her attention to both form and function.

Dating to the Polacca period of the 1890s-1900s, the bowl's monochrome palette and slip crazing are indicative of the materials and techniques used during this time. This period predates the influence of the Fred Harvey Company and represents a purer expression of Hopi artistry. A true testament to Nampeyo's enduring legacy, this piece captures her mastery, humor, and deep connection to Hopi cultural traditions.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Small Historic Hopi Bowl by Matriarch Nampeyo of Hano is from a private collection

Recommended Reading: The Legacy of a Master Potter - Nampeyo and Her Descendants by Mary Ellen and Laurence Blair

TAGS: Hopi Pueblo, Fannie Polacca Nampeyo, Nellie Nampeyo Douma, Annie Healing Nampeyo, Nampeyo of Hano, Hopi-Tewa Potter and Matriarch