Large Handmade Butterfly Pottery Ornament From Jemez Pueblo

More than a decade ago, at Martha Struever's gallery, we did a small show called Christmas in Jemez Pueblo. The presentation highlighted charming hand-built pottery nativities, angels, ornaments, storytellers, and religious themed figures.

Marti Struever spent months acquiring pieces for the pottery show. During that time, she acquired this large butterfly ornament. Instead of offering it for sale in the show, Marti kept it for herself. 

The ornament is visually stunning. Hand built of clay, the butterfly ornament is exquisitely painted in polychrome. Notice how each wing of the butterfly is painted with a pretty plant stalk. Then, in the body of the butterfly is a stalk of corn symbolizing life. 

It's such an unusual and expressive piece. Painted on both sides but unsigned.

Butterfly measures 4 3/4" x 3 3/4".