Navajo Pottery Appraisal

Navajo Pottery Vessel by Myrin Charley with Turquoise Inlay

This is a globular-shaped Navajo pottery vessel, hand-coiled and constructed from traditional clay. The primary color is a matte black or very dark grey, characteristic of fire-reduced pottery, with intricate designs etched or carved into the surface to reveal a lighter, natural clay color beneath, creating a striking negative space effect. The designs are geometric and highly detailed, featuring multiple bands of patterns. The neck of the pot is adorned with a band of interlocking rectangles and triangles, while the shoulder area showcases a prominent central motif that incorporates a polished, rounded turquoise stone as a focal point. This stone is set flush with the pottery surface and is a vibrant blue-green, adding a significant visual element. Surrounding the turquoise, the etched patterns radiate outwards with fanning lines and triangular shapes. Below this central band, there is a recurring stepped or labyrinthine pattern, which is a common motif in Native American art, followed by a wave-like or scalloped design. The lower body of the pot features vertical, repetitive etched lines. The craftsmanship appears to be of high quality, exhibiting precision in the incised lines and consistency in the overall form. There are no readily visible signs of significant damage, cracks, or repairs; the surface appears to have an even finish with a soft, matte patina. The item is identified as being by Myrin Charley, indicating an authentic Native American artisan, likely from the contemporary period given the integration of the turquoise and the detailed incising style. The overall aesthetic speaks to both traditional forms and modern craftsmanship.