Mata Ortiz Handbuilt and Handpainted Seed Pot with Dragonflies

Description

Mata Ortiz Handbuilt and Handpainted Seed Pot with Dragonflies by Ailadi Mijarez

This piece was handbuilt, etched and handpainted by Mata Ortiz resident Ailadi Mijarez. This beautiful seed pot is covered with etched dragonflies on a etched surface. 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. The dragonfly appears in summer and is an indication that water is near. They are a celebration of the summer rains that are prayed for in the arid southwestern desert. Pottery ring included.