Now on view at Adobe Gallery, at the base of historic Canyon Road in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a collection of work by Tony Da, the San Ildefonso Pueblo potter whose work is treasured at the highest levels of Native American pottery.
Avanyu Jar, turquoise, clay and shell heishi, 3¼ x 5”
Da—the grandson of Maria and Julian Martinez, and the son of Popovi Da—was a pivotal figure in the world of pueblo pottery. He took advancements made by his famous family members and improved on them in the second half of the 20th century. His pottery included the famous blackware style made famous by Maria Martinez and also a sgraffito style popularized by Popovi. Sadly, Da’s life was cut short after a motorcycle accident in 1982. He was only 42 years old.
Due to the high quality of his work and the limited amount that was made, Da’s works are cherished by collectors, including at public institutions around the world.
Black and Sienna Bear, clay and turquoise, 3¾ x 6 x 2¾”
Works available at Adobe Gallery include Avanyu Jar, made with turquoise, clay and shell. “This compact yet extraordinary jar by renowned San Ildefonso potter Tony Da, highlights his unparalleled mastery and artistic ingenuity. The bottom half of the jar features a high-polished slip that beautifully reflects light, while the upper half is adorned with a meticulously sgraffito-carved Avanyu design that elegantly wraps around the jar’s surface, beginning just above the shoulder,” the gallery notes. “At the very top, just below the rim, two delicate bands of very fine shell heishi inlay add an element of extraordinary precision—an embellishment so fine that only the most skilled potters would attempt, let alone achieve with such perfection.”
Red Pottery Plate with Antelope Image, clay, 6 x 1¼”
Also available is Black and Sienna Bear, which showcases Da’s sculptural innovation. “Drawing inspiration from traditional Zuni fetishes, Tony created a distinctive bear form that became one of his signature designs. The bear features small domed turquoise cabochons for eyes, and a meticulously carved heartline running the entire length of its abdomen, symbolizing breath and life force,” Adobe Gallery notes about the work. “The deep black surface of the bear, reaching a near gunmetal finish, speaks to the exceptional firing process—likely overseen by Tony’s father, Popovi Da—resulting in a polished blackware with remarkable depth and luster. Signed ‘DA’ on the left back leg, this bear is a rare example from the brief period between 1967 and 1971 when Tony produced these elegant forms…This particular bear exemplifies Tony Da’s ability to blend tradition with innovation, resulting in a sculptural masterpiece that remains highly sought by collectors.” —
Adobe Gallery
On View Now
221 Canyon Road, Santa Fe, NM 87501 (505) 955-0550, www.adobegallery.com
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