Adobe Gallery Blog

This is a rare early redware jar by Maria Martinez (1887-1980) and Popovi Da (1922-1971). Popovi started working with his mom in 1956. He 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. He was going to pursue his career after his mother was no longer making pottery. Unfortunately, he passed away in 1971. It was, at that time, that Maria retired.

This jar was made, most likely, between 1956 and 1960. It is co-signed, but not dated. Popovi applied a date to most pieces made after 1960. During the lifetime of this jar, perhaps from the very beginning, it served as a lamp base. The bottom of the jar was drilled for a lamp cord. The drill hole did not mar the signatures.

This is a major effort by Maria and Popovi and is a masterpiece of their collaboration. It demonstrates, once again, that they were among the finest team ever to produce pueblo potter in the mid-20th century.

Condition: a hole was drilled in the bottom to accommodate a lamp cord at one time in the history of the jar. It appears that a slip crack just above the shoulder was professionally repaired. There are a few minor scratches but nothing of great significance.
Provenance: formerly sold by Gallery 10 of Santa Fe and Scottsdale
                      From the estate of Michael Frost
Recommended Reading: The Legacy of Maria Poveka Martinez by Richard Spivey

Subject: Buff-on-red Tall Neck Jar Signed as Maria / Popovi
Artists / Potters: Maria Martinez 1887-1980 and Popovi Da
Category: Contemporary
Origin: San Ildefonso Pueblo
Medium: Native Materials
Size: 15" tall x 9-7/8" diameter
Item # C3360G