Pottery

Appreciate the skill and creativity involved in Native American pottery, an art form that combines functionality with beauty. Discover various pottery styles, techniques, and the cultural meaning behind the designs and patterns used by different tribes.

Gobernador Polychrome jar Vessel from MIAC Collections (37715). Photograph by Daisy Levine.

Gobernador Polychrome Pottery

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.

The Legacy of a Master Potter Nampeyo and Her Descendants

The Legacy of a Master Potter: Nampeyo and Her Descendants

“The Legacy of a Master Potter: Nampeyo and Her Descendants” is a comprehensive study of the life and work of Nampeyo, a Hopi-Tewa potter who lived in Arizona. The book is written by Mary Ellen Blair and Laurence Blair and is the result of over 20 years of research. The book covers Nampeyo’s life and work, the history of the Tewa people, and the development of Hopi pottery techniques. It also includes a section on Nampeyo’s talented descendants.

Dinetah Gray jar Vessel from MIAC Collectons 53033. BLM Dinetah Survey Project. Photograph by Carol Price.

Dinetah Gray Pottery

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.

Navajo Pottery Making

Navajo Pottery

Navajo pottery is an essential aspect of the tribe’s rich artistic heritage, reflecting a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and cultural exchange. This ancient art form has undergone significant changes over time, adapting to external influences and internal developments within the Navajo community. This article will explore the origins, techniques, and evolution of Navajo pottery, highlighting the interactions with other tribes and peoples that have shaped this dynamic art form. By understanding the multifaceted history of Navajo pottery, we can foster a greater appreciation for the interconnected histories, cultures, and experiences of Native American peoples.

Scroll to Top