Santa Clara Pueblo Pottery Bowl By Margaret Tafoya

ca. 1960s

3.0625" H x 6.5" D

Hand Coiled Blackware with Deep Carving of a Water Serpent

In Very Good Condition

Margaret Tafoya (1904–2001), also known by her Tewa name Corn Blossom, was one of the most celebrated potters from Santa Clara Pueblo in New Mexico. She is widely regarded as the matriarch of Santa Clara Pueblo potters, renowned for transforming traditional pottery from primarily utilitarian vessels into exquisite artistic works.

Tafoya learned the ancient craft from her mother, Sara Fina Tafoya (a master of large, finely polished blackware), and her father, Jose Geronimo Tafoya. Using only native clay from the pueblo, she hand-coiled her pieces (never using a potter's wheel), meticulously polished them to a high sheen, and fired them in outdoor pits—often smothering the fire to achieve the signature glossy black finish. Her bowls and jars are famous for their flawless symmetry, deep carving, and traditional motifs like the Avanyu (water serpent, symbolizing water and life), bear paw imprints (representing good luck and healing), kiva steps, and geometric patterns.