$140.00
Shipping calculated at checkout.
ca. 1999
2.375" H x 5.5" L x 3.25" W
Hand Coiled from Local Red Clay with Etched Geometric Designs on the Shell
Excellent Condition
Navajo turtle-themed pottery is a popular motif in contemporary Native American art, symbolizing longevity, wisdom, protection, and fertility in Navajo (Diné) culture. Turtles are often depicted in hand-coiled, etched, or horsehair-fired pieces. The turtle represents the earth, stability, and the ability to withdraw into a protective shell—mirroring Navajo values of resilience and harmony with nature. It's less common than horned toad or corn designs but appears in modern folk art. Traditional Navajo pottery is hand-coiled from local clay, pit-fired (creating "fire clouds"), and sometimes sealed with pine pitch for waterproofing. Contemporary styles include horsehair raku (hair singed onto the surface during firing) or sgraffito etching for turtle shells and patterns.
Condition:
Excellent
Tribe:
Navajo
Year Range:
1975 - 2000
Region:
Southwest
Dimensions:
2.38 in5.5 in3.25 in
Category:
Pottery - Turtle Collection
