Paul "Speckled Rock" Tafoya (1952-2017) Pueblo, Santa Clara Etched Redware Seed Pot. His signature pottery style is apparent with the turquoise-colored lines etched into the rich sienna surface, showing a bird surrounded by a coiling snake. Signed with his Tewa name on the underside along with a serial number and dated '88. 

Size: 2 x 1 3/4 x 1 3/4 in. 

Paul Joseph “Speckled Rock” Tafoya was born February 6th, 1952 on the Santa Clara Pueblo, coming from a prestigious line of potters. He initially sought work in architectural engineering while studying at the National Electronics Institute, but his marriage to noted potter Rosemary “Apple Blossom” Lonewolf led him to explore his heritage and discover a love of art as well, working as a tribal policeman on the Pueblo and selling paintings in acrylic on board to support his family in the 1970s while honing his pottery techniques. Along with bronze sculptures and bear fetishes, his diverse output began to win awards at markets at Inter-Tribal Fairs throughout the 80s and 90s, and after his divorce he opened a studio with his new wife Mercedes Rivera in 1984, along with the Merrock Galeria, a hub that featured and promoted the work of various contemporary Southwest pueblo artists. He passed away on October 24th, 2017, with his works highly sought by collectors ever since. 

All items are sold AS IS. Lot and condition details are for descriptive purposes only. Sarasota Estate Auction is not responsible for errors and/or omissions of condition. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is perfect or free from wear, flaws, or characteristics of age. Please bid according to your own expertise, or request any additional information and/or photographs you deem necessary.