Letters

-----Original Message-----
From: John M. Benfatto
Date: Wednesday, February 05, 1997
Subject: Your pot

Hi, I just stumbled across your web page asking for help identifying your Indian pot.   I expect you've probably already identified it, but in case you haven't:

It is Hopi, circa 1920 to 1930. This shape was very
popular during that period and is similar to the art-
pottery vases of the time.

The designs are called "Sikyatki  Revival" and are based
on the designs found on  Sikyatki pottery (dating from
around 1400, I think). Legend has it that the Sikyatki
style was revived by the famous Hopi potter "Nampeyo"
("snake that does not bite" ) around the turn of the century
when she visited excavations and examined the designs
on the pre-historic Sikyatki pot-sherds being recovered
at the sites. She revived the style and it was an immediate
hit. Most other Hopi potters followed suit shortly thereafter
such that by 1920, pretty much all Hopi pottery was decorated in the Sikyatki style.

I'm not an Indian art dealer, but I can give you an estimate as to its value if you want.

--
John Benfatto
Phar Lap Software
60 Aberdeen Ave. voice: +1 617.661.1510 x248
Cambridge, MA 02138 USA fax: +1 617.876.2972

I believe that this is a Hopi pot. Hard to tell the age...old ones look
similar to the new ones being made today. Perhaps you should contact
the Heard Museum in Phoenix AZ, and ask if they have an
identification/appraisal service. Good Luck!
--
Marjorie Hines
SpiritWorks Art Company E-mail:
1437F South Victoria Ave #120
Ventura, CA 93003 Fax- 805-289-1411

HANDMADE CERAMIC ORNAMENT & DECORATIVE ART
Inspired by Ancient Rock Art and Native Peoples of the Americas