Native American Pottery Maria Martinez and Ancient Pueblo

Native American Pottery Maria Martinez and Ancient Pueblo Pottery

Maria Martinez • Born in 1887 as a part of the Native American Tewa Tribe from San Ildefonso Pueblo. • She became interested in pottery making as a young child. • Hand-made pottery was in decline because dishes were starting to be mass-produced. • She reintroduced ancient Pueblo pottery techniques and designs into modern times.

Maria Martinez • She lived and worked in Santa Fe, New Mexico. • By 1904, she was known as a respected potter and displayed work in the St. Louis World’s Fair. • She and her husband Julian Martinez, worked together on many pieces. She would craft the pottery and Julian would paint the designs.

Maria Martinez • She was well known for her distinctive black on black ware. • Died 1980 • After her death her pottery became valuable to collectors. • She is one of the most famous Native American Potters.

Pottery by Maria Martinez Plate After 1955 Bowl 1940 Plate with Avanyu Design 1950’s Plate 1950’s

Ancient Pueblo Pottery • Pottery has served both decorative and functional purposes for thousands of years. • Functional pottery was commonly used for water and food storage, cooking pots and eating and drinking utensils. • Some pottery was used for ceremonial purposes and used to store beads and other items.

Ancient Pueblo Pottery • Because there were many Native American tribes, pottery styles, firing and finishing methods, and decorative patterns varied widely. • They all made coil and pinch pots by hand still do today.

Ancient Pueblo Pottery Santa Domingo, 1600 -1880

Ancient Pueblo Pottery New Mexico, 1200 A. D. San Ildefonso, 1600 -1880 Storage Jar