Though the artist is unknown, this work is unmistakably from the The Santa Clara Pueblo in New Mexico, known for their glossy black pottery and representational designs. This Pueblo has a rich legacy of pottery-making and is home to one of the most vibrant communities of potters creating high-quality, traditional vessels. Their handcrafted blackware is among the most well-known and has been produced since the late 10th century, pioneered by Maria Martinez. Many Santa Clara potters have a specific place at the Pueblo they always travel to where they collect their clay by hand and search for the pumice that they will add to the clay to give it strength. Smooth stones that are passed down through the generations are often still used to smooth and shape the clay. Designs are painted on before firing, traditionally with a brush fashioned from yucca fiber and paint derived from plants and minerals. Designs are based on abstract representations of clouds, rain, feathers, birds, plants, animals, and other natural world features. The distinctive glossy black finish is achieved by firing the work in a smothered fire.