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Plate with Four-Part Geometric Pattern

A work made of ceramic and pigment.

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  • A work made of ceramic and pigment.

Date:

c. 1933

Artist:

Maria Montoya Martinez (San Ildefonso, 1886–1980)
Julian Martinez (San Ildefonso, 1879–1943)
San Ildefonso Pueblo, New Mexico

About this artwork

In the early 20th century, Maria Martinez and her husband, Julian, revived an ancient Puebloan tradition of making all-black pottery. These works were markedly different from ceramics then being created in San Ildefonso and elsewhere in the Southwest. Martinez polished the clay surface to a high shine and painted matte designs over it. Her vessels were then fired through a technique called “reduction firing,” which causes the clay to turn black. These blackware vessels earned Martinez international acclaim.

Status

On View, Gallery 265

Department

Arts of the Americas

Artists

Maria Martinez , Julian Martinez

Cultures

Pueblo , San Ildefonso Pueblo

Title

Plate with Four-Part Geometric Pattern, Plate with Geometric Border

Places

United States (Object made in), San Ildefonso Pueblo (Object made in), New Mexico (Object made in)

Date

c. 1933

Medium

Ceramic and pigment

Inscriptions

Signed on reverse: Marie / + / Julian

Dimensions

Diam.: 31.3 cm (12 5/16 in.)

Credit Line

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Chamales through the Antiquarian Society in memory of Emily M. Goehst

Reference Number

1985.985

Extended information about this artwork

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.

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