Mata Ortiz Handbuilt and Handpainted Seed Pot with Lizards

Description

Mata Ortiz Handbuilt and Handpainted Seed Pot with Lizards by Martha Quezada

This great older piece (1990s) was handbuilt and handpainted by Mata Ortiz resident Martha Quezada. The Quezada family is renowned for this 'tejido' (textured) or braided style. This wonderful seed pot has four lizards protecting the opening. In the fall the women would take the seeds for next Spring and place them in these pots and then stack them. These pots would be placed in the corner of their home, stacked so the bottom of one pot would seal the top of the other. This storage technique would save space and keep the rodents from ruining next years' seed crop. Pottery ring included.