An Early Maria Martinez Black-on-Black Jar

ca. 1920-1925 
4.75" x 8" 

With the Avaynu motif.  Light wear at surface as pictured including one very small surface flake at mid body as pictured.  Considering this is among the earlierst of Maria pottery, this is in overall Very Good condition.

By 1923, Maria began signing Marie on pieces made by her and Julian. His name was omitted  because making pottery was “woman's work.” Pottery made by Maria and painted by Julian, signed Marie, was most probably made between 1920 and 1925. 

Pottery made by Maria and painted by Julian between 1925 and 1943 bears the dual signature Marie  +  Julian. By 1925, and until his death in 1943, as Maria shared the signature with Julian. 

Following the death of Julian, their son Adam and his wife Santana helped Maria with the design and  firing  of her pottery. Pieces made between 1943 and 1954 are signed Maria + Santana.