Mid-20th Century San Ildefonso Black-on-Black Pottery Jar by Marie & Santana and Dish by Lupita Martinez - Set of 2

Elevate your space with this exceptional, museum-quality pair of mid-20th-century Native American blackware art pottery articles from the historic San Ildefonso Pueblo of New Mexico. This rare collector's set includes a beautifully proportioned olla jar and an accompanying low dish, offering an authentic glimpse into the legendary Southwest design revival spearheaded by Maria Martinez. Unlike European tin-glazed earthenware, Majolica, or traditional Spanish Talavera pottery, these hand-coiled, stone-polished pieces achieve their signature lustrous, metallic sheen through traditional wood-firing techniques rather than chemical glazes. The Collection Includes: • Marie & Santana Feather Jar (Circa 1943–1956): Measuring approximately 7 inches in height and 8 inches in diameter, this striking vessel features a classic matte geometric feather band meticulously painted over a highly reflective, polished black slip body. The underside bears the authentic, highly collectible incised signature "Marie & Santana", representing the famous collaboration between Maria Martinez (signing as Marie) and her daughter-in-law, Santana Martinez. • Lupita Martinez Polished Blackware Dish: A unique, complementary accent piece handcrafted and signed on the underside by renowned potter Lupita Martinez (1918–2006). A niece of Maria and Julian Martinez through marriage, Lupita is celebrated for her exceptional command of the blackware medium. Rather than her typical bird figurines, this rare small dish stands out as a unique, geometric geometric collectors' piece. Interior Design & Styling Versatility With a minimalist yet rich historical presence, these versatile ceramic art pieces effortlessly bridge the gap between traditional Southwest heritage and modern luxury design. • Centerpiece Display: Position them on a living room coffee table or a console table alongside fresh sunflowers. • Sophisticated Accents: Use them as a brilliant bibelot on a library shelf, on top of a fireplace mantle, or as a decorative object on a kitchen counter. • Design Aesthetics: A perfect addition of history and old-world charm that complements rustic farmhouse, Provençal provincial, Spanish Revival, or sleek contemporary minimalist interiors. • Luxury Gifting: An unforgettable, unique gift idea for the holiday season, fine art collectors, or upscale housewarmings. ________________________________________ Item Specifications • Origin: San Ildefonso Pueblo, New Mexico, USA • Period: Mid-20th Century (Circa 1943–1956) • Materials: Hand-gathered native clay, organic slip • Signatures: "Marie & Santana" (Jar) | "Lupita Martinez" (Dish) • Jar Dimensions: Height: ~7" | Diameter: ~8" (Original archival documentation notes 6 3/4" x 8") • Dish Dimensions: Small accent dish scaled to match the set • Seller Reference SKU: HPMURR-SI-BOB-2026 ________________________________________ Detailed Condition Report & Seller Protection Offered in very good antique/vintage condition, consistent with age and traditional indigenous production methods. Both pieces are structurally sound with no cracks, chips, or structural repairs. • UV Light Inspection: Fully inspected under ultraviolet light. No noticeable fluorescence observed, confirming the absence of modern restoration or touch-ups. • The Jar: Displays typical surface scuffing to the delicate matte decoration and scattered light surface scratches overall. Features minor indentations inherent to the native clay potting and outdoor pit-firing process, alongside faint glaze crazing overall. One small circular rubbed spot (potential historic impact mark) is located within the matte band, with another smaller mark on the lower section of the jar body. • The Dish: Exhibits expected light scuffing to the matte decorative elements, minor scattered surface abrasions to the center polished basin, and small, isolated white mineral spatters from historic display. • Please review all high-resolution images carefully, as they constitute an integral part of this condition statement.