UPDATE:

This piece was created with an experimental firing technique. As a result, the clay did not fully harden, and unfortunately over time the piece has begun to exhibit surface pitting. Nevertheless, it is a remarkable piece of workmanship and quite a stunning vessel to behold. In this condition, it's simply not marketable as a collector item - but it would be a shame to send this one to be made into sherds. As a result, we are offering it for a brief time in the event there is a buyer out there who can appreciate what this represents in terms of material culture. Updated photos can be provided upon request. Price is reduced by 65%. Well below cost.

If you have questions about this
item, please contact Brandon: sales@ancientnations.com

Artist Bio:

Born in 1987, Bobby Silas was taught potting by a member of the Navasie family. Bobby has been potting only four years and is intent on reviving Sikyatki pottery using local clay, tools and variations of the ancient designs. Bobby says his focus is to revive the Siktayki pottery of 1100-1600. In the last few years, Bobby has revived the Siktayki method of firing using lignite coal, which he acquires near First Mesa at Hopi. This technique allows the clay to burn at a higher temperature and burn longer.

All of his work is hand-coiled, painted with native clay slips, and a bee-weed plant variant. Bobby has made it clear that he is an artist who is drawn to the past and wants to make his pottery same way his ancestors did. He has gone to the museum in Flagstaff and the School for Advanced Research in Santa Fe. That gave him access to old pieces of Zuni and Hopi pottery.