Art

Gobernador Polychrome pottery, a distinct Navajo pottery style, offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistic and cultural heritage of the Navajo people. First identified in 1936 by Kidder and Shepard, this pottery type showcases the Navajo’s ability to create intricate designs and skillful craftsmanship. This article delves into the history, production techniques, and aesthetics of Gobernador Polychrome pottery, shedding light on the diverse influences and artistic innovations that characterize this distinctive art form.

This article delves into early Navajo pottery, specifically Dinetah Gray, a utility ware found at sites in the traditional Navajo homeland. Previously believed to have arrived in the Dinetah region in the late seventeenth century, recent investigations suggest it dates back to the entire seventeenth century or even the mid-sixteenth century. Dinetah Gray vessels, mostly used for cooking or storage, have unique features such as rough surfaces, distinctive striations, and pointed bottoms. Their origin remains uncertain, either adopted from Pueblo neighbors or acquired during the Navajo migration from the Arctic.