1930s Seed Jar by Hopi-Tewa Potter Paqua Naha - 1st Frog Woman

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Immerse yourself in the rich cultural legacy of Native American art with this exceptional early Seed Jar crafted by the … Read more Immerse yourself in the rich cultural legacy of Native American art with this exceptional early Seed Jar crafted by the esteemed Paqua Naha, also known as The 1st Frog Woman (1890-1955). This rare and captivating piece provides a unique opportunity to own a significant creation by one of the foremost and influential Native American potters of the early 20th century.

This exquisite seed jar, measuring 6" x 4", bears the unmistakable touch of Paqua Naha, as evidenced by her famous frog hallmark glyph proudly adorning the bottom surface. Dating from the 1930's, the jar showcases the distinctive "black-and-red on yellow" style that Paqua Naha mastered, a technique popularized as Sikyátki revival ware by the renowned Hopi-Tewa potter Nampeyo.

As you admire this piece, you'll notice the normal wear and life marks on the surface, attesting to the jar's authenticity and journey through time. Remarkably, it remains free of any cracks or chips, with only surface scuffs that add character and tell the story of its existence.

Paqua Naha's legacy as a potter unfolded in the 1920s, and she gained recognition for her intricate works, including ollas and low seed jars. Her use of a frog symbol as a hallmark, a practice initiated around 1925, has become an iconic representation of her artistry. The frog, symbolizing life and transformation, is a testament to Naha's connection to her Hopi roots.
In a fascinating evolution towards the end of her career in 1951 or 1952, Paqua Naha ventured into experimentation with white slips, pioneering a polychrome whiteware technique. This innovative approach marked a departure from her earlier yellow and beige pieces and showcased her adaptability and artistic vision.

Paqua Naha's influence extends beyond her own creations, as she is the matriarch of the esteemed Naha/Navasie family. Her descendants, including notable potters like Joy Navasie and Helen Naha, continued her legacy, adopting her whiteware technique and the iconic frog hallmark with minor differences in the glyph. Joy's froh has webbed feet where as Paqua's frog glyph always features straight toes.

The significance of Paqua Naha's contributions to Native American pottery is recognized by prestigious institutions, with her works prominently featured in the collections of the National Museum of the American Indian, the Museum of Northern Arizona, and the Heard Museum. This 1930's Seed Jar stands as a testament to Paqua Naha's enduring impact on the world of Native American art, making it a cherished and valuable addition to any discerning collector's assemblage. of important Native American pottery. See less