This is a beautiful vintage blackware San Ildefonso Pueblo wedding vase created by recognized potter Beverly Martinez (1960-1991). Beverly used the matte-on-black method to design a striking "Avanyu" circling the widest part of the vase. The Avanyu is a horned serpent common in pueblo lore and is captivatingly depicted on this piece.
 
The bowl measures11 ¼“ in height and 9” in width. The vase was formed and fired using traditional methods and has a high burnish. The vase is in very good condition with no chips, or cracks and shows only minor wear marks which would be considered normal for the age of the vase. The bowl is signed “Beverly Martinez”. She is the granddaughter of famous potters Santana and Adam Martinez.
 
Beverly Martinez’s work is highly recognized for outstanding craftsmanship, beautiful polish, and delicate painting. She was featured in the 1974 “7 Families in Pueblo Pottery”. San Ildefonso Pueblo pottery tends to be highly regarded for its excellent quality craftmanship and eye-catching designs. Their pottery is very collectible and highly sought after.
 
The wedding vase was purchased at auction (sticker still attached) in the 1980s and has had one owner since. The vase has been on display in a non-smoking home in an open, yet protective display case. The vase would be perfect for the current popular white decor/dark contrast farmhouse style, or anywhere there is a desire for texture, ethnic art, geometric symmetry, or a wish for natural earthy elements.