Native American Decorative Arts Pottery Appraisal

Sioux Pottery Vase with Native American Portrait by Richard Underbaggage

This is a substantial hand-painted pottery vase, likely terra cotta or a similar unglazed ceramic material for the base, transitioning to a glazed or painted upper body. The vase is designed in a classic ovoid or urn-like shape, with a wider upper body tapering towards a narrower base. The dominant feature is a meticulously hand-painted portrait of a Native American man in profile, facing left, adorned with a buffalo horn headdress and feather decorations. The headdress is richly detailed with brown fur texture and prominent, curved light brown buffalo horns. Intricate beadwork, possibly a dream catcher motif in light blue, white, and red, hangs near his ear, complementing the multi-colored woven or beaded patterns on his attire and headwear. Behind the figure, a landscape painting depicts evergreen trees, mountains, and a sky rendered in shades of green, brown, and light blue. The base of the painted scene is encircled by a geometric black and white patterned band, consistent with Native American art motifs. Below this band, the natural terra cotta color of the pottery is visible, bearing handwritten white lettering that reads 'UNDERBAGGAGE • LAKOTA •'. This inscription clearly identifies the artist as Richard Underbaggage and indicates his Lakota heritage, aligning with information about 'The Artists of Sioux Pottery'. The vase appears to be in excellent condition with no visible chips, cracks, or significant wear to the painted surface. The craftsmanship suggests a high level of artistic skill, combining traditional pottery with detailed illustrative painting, likely dating from a contemporary period for indigenous crafts. The quality of the painting, particularly the facial features and the texture of the headdress, indicates an experienced artisan. The size appears considerable, making it a prominent decorative piece.