JEMEZ POTTERY STORYTELLER BY CLIFFORD KIM FRAGUA

Description

Jemez potter Clifford Kim Fragua hand crafted this outstanding pottery storyteller, which depicts a lady with two children.  Clifford was born at Jemez Pueblo in 1957.  He has been creating pottery sculptures since 1970. He was inspired to learn the art of clay sculpting from his mother, the late Grace L. Fragua.  Clifford specializes in handmade storytellers,  humorous koshares, animal figurines, nativities, Christmas ornaments, and Corn Maidens.  Clifford uses native clay and temper found around Jemez Pueblo.  Natural pigments are also used to paint each piece.  The clay and sand is prepared by drying, grinding, and sifting before it is mixed with water to produce the medium (weight of clay).  The sculptures are then hand pinched, air dried, painted, and fired.  His work is a unique blend of the traditional and contemporary styles, producing one of a kind pieces.  Signed

4  5/16” tall x 5  3/8″ long x 4  9/16″

Artist card included

The pottery is new but hand made and painted, so there may be imperfections.  We try to capture every side in the photos but if you have any questions, please contact us.

Within the Jemez Pueblo there are many exceptional potters.  The work is generally characterized by the buff and red clays used, and the range of styles and subjects.   Storyteller, figures, sgrafitto designs, wedding vases, and melon pots are a few of their favorites.  Before the arrival of the Spanish, Jemez was known for its traditional black-on-white ware, but production of this type of pottery died out in the early 18th century.  There was a revival of Jemez pottery-making in the early 20th century inspired and influenced by Zia pottery designs, but it was not until the 1960’s and 70’s that a significant number of Jemez potters began producing high-quality work using traditional methods.

Additional information