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.

I have thoroughly examined the provided image of the Sioux Pottery Vase with a Native American Portrait by Richard Underbaggage. The vase appears to be in excellent condition, with no visible chips, cracks, or significant wear to the painted surface, which is crucial for its value. The base material seems to be unglazed ceramic, likely terra cotta, with a glazed or painted finish on the upper portion. The handwritten signature 'UNDERBAGGAGE • LAKOTA •' is a strong indicator of authenticity, clearly identifying the artist as Richard Underbaggage, a known Lakota artist associated with 'The Artists of Sioux Pottery' as indicated by the owner. The quality of the hand-painted portrait, particularly the intricate detailing of the buffalo horn headdress, beadwork, and facial features, demonstrates a high level of artistic skill and craftsmanship. The accompanying landscape scene and geometric band further enhance its decorative appeal and cultural relevance. Market conditions for contemporary Native American pottery, especially pieces by recognized artists, are generally strong. Comparables for signed pieces by skilled Sioux artists with detailed illustrative work often fall within the $700-$1500 range, depending on size, complexity, and artist recognition. The demand for such pieces is consistent among collectors of Native American art and pottery. The rarity is moderate; while Sioux pottery is produced, individual artist-signed pieces of this quality are less common than more mass-produced items. The clear artist attribution significantly impacts its value positively. My assessment of authenticity is based on the visible signature and consistency with known styles. However, limitations arise from examining images alone. For full authentication, I would recommend an in-person examination to assess the pottery's exact age through tactile inspection, confirm the application technique of the paints, and verify the physical texture and quality of the pottery itself against known examples of Underbaggage's work. Provenance documentation, such as purchase receipts or exhibition history, would further solidify its authenticity and value.