Jemez Pueblo Pottery By A. Tafoya

Late 20th Century

7.875" H x 7.625" D

Hand Coiled from Local Clay with Step Design Opening and Painted Feather Geometric Pattern

In Very Good Condition with a Couple Scuff Marks

The Tafoya family is prominent in Jemez pottery, with several generations of acclaimed artists. A. Tafoya is a piece signed by a member of this family Andrea Tafoya (a known Jemez potter).

Jemez Pueblo pottery is a vibrant tradition from Jemez Pueblo (Walatowa) in northern New Mexico. Revived in the late 20th century after a long hiatus, it features distinctive earth-tone colors (often red, brown, or polychrome), stone-polished surfaces combined with matte finishes, and intricate designs using techniques like sgraffito (etching/scratched patterns), carving (e.g., melon ribs), and painted motifs such as avanyu (water serpents), hummingbirds, feathers, flowers, geometric shapes, and nature-inspired elements.