Large 14" Jemez Pueblo Pottery Wedding Vase Jar by Lawrence Toya Desert Scene

Large 14" Jemez Pueblo Pottery Wedding Vase Jar by L. (Lawrence) ToyaLate 20th Century Approximately 14.25" h x 8" w L. Toya (Lawrence Toya) was a Jemez Pueblo potter from New Mexico known for his pottery, particularly his wedding vases. His pottery is often characterized by vibrant colors, geometric designs, and depictions of Pueblo buildings. He is also known for creating storytellers and other figurative pieces. L. Toya's pottery-making skills were likely passed down through his family, with many other members of the Toya family also being renowned potters. Jemez pottery, including that of L. Toya, is known for its distinctive earth-tone colors, blending stone polished and matte finishes. Spanish accounts tell of a population of 30,000 Jemez people living in the mountains in the late 1500s. The Jemez Springs area was among the most densely populated regions in New Mexico at the time of Spanish colonization. However, by the early 1700s, the number was close to 300, a 99 percent decline in population over not too much more than a century. Disease, migration, and warfare had culminated in a nearly complete societal collapse. Yet, the Jemez remained. Culture and community intact, they weathered the most devastating storm imaginable and came out the other side as vibrant as ever. Ships next business day. Professional seller. Packed with care.