San Ildefonso Pottery Appraisal

San Ildefonso Black-on-black Pottery Jar

This item is identified as a Native American pottery jar, likely from the San Ildefonso Pueblo, characterized by its distinctive black-on-black firing technique. The jar measures approximately 12 inches tall and 10 inches wide, exhibiting a classic olla or water jar form with a wide, bulbous body that tapers to a narrower neck and a flared rim. The material is traditional Native American clay, fired to achieve a lustrous, deep black surface. The finish appears polished, with areas reflecting light, indicating the traditional stone-polishing method. A notable feature is the subtle, matte black design visible on the shoulder of the pot, which contrasts against the polished background. While difficult to discern the exact pattern from the image, these designs are typically geometric, symbolic, or naturalistic motifs. The black-on-black technique involves applying a slip to create areas that turn matte during the second firing, while the un-slipped, polished areas retain their sheen. Observable condition issues include general surface wear, consistent with age and handling. There are some scuffs and scratches visible on the polished surface, particularly around the widest part of the body and the rim, which may indicate rubbing against other objects or common use. The rim itself appears smooth, without prominent chips or cracks, though some minor abrasions might be present upon closer inspection. The overall patina suggests an item with significant age, possibly mid-20th century or earlier, aligning with the peak period of black-on-black tradition by artists like Maria and Julian Martinez. The craftsmanship is evident in the symmetrical form and the consistent, though aged, finish, indicating skilled hand-coiling and traditional firing methods.