Maria Poveka Martinez, Fluted Black San Ildefonso Bowl

Description

Maria Poveka Martinez (1887-1980) is widely recognized as the greatest Native American potter.  Almost single-handedly, Maria made the pottery created in the little pueblo of San Ildefonso famous and collectible.  I purchased the bowl for sale here seven years ago from the venerable Len Wood's Indian Territory in Laguna Beach, CA.  It is an unusual and beautiful polished black fluted bowl. Created in 1960 and measuring 3 1/4 X 8 1/2 inches, it is a delicate example of hand coiled clay pottery.  It has two small, shallow dimples in its interior.  The first appears near the top of photo 2, while the second is barely visible near the top of photo 3.  Both dimples date from the bowl's creation.