Jemez Pueblo Storyteller Doll Pottery By B. Loretto

Late 20th Century

2.125" H x 2.875" L x 2" W

Hand Crafted from Clay of a Turtle with Two Children Riding on His Back Signed B. Loretto Jemez

In Very Good Condition

B. Loretto is the signature of Beatrice Riley (also known as Beatrice Loretto or Beatrice Riley Loretto), a full-blooded Jemez Pueblo potter born in 1951. 

She began working with clay around 1962 and is known for digging her own natural clay from sacred grounds within the pueblo. Beatrice uses traditional coil and pinch methods, along with natural slips and paints for her sculptures, which often include storytellers, nativity figures (like Joseph), and other forms such as wedding vases. She signs her work "B. Loretto" or "B. Loretto, Jemez." She is related to other prominent Loretto family potters from Jemez (a large extended family of artists including sisters and relatives like Lupe Loretto Lucero, Alma Loretto Concha, Fannie Loretto, Angie Loretto, and others who also create storytellers and pottery).