Native American Navajo Marvin Blackmore Black Pottery Oval Vase

Details

Description

Yes, this is a stunning example of black-on-black etched pottery handcrafted by renowned Diné (Navajo) artist Marvin Blackmore. This specific … Read more Yes, this is a stunning example of black-on-black etched pottery handcrafted by renowned Diné (Navajo) artist Marvin Blackmore. This specific piece highlights his early-career signature style. He relies on highly detailed geometric engraving—a meticulous scratch-carving method known as sgraffito. Instead of painting, he applies highly polished, lustrous black slips over a matte background to produce deep, high-contrast medallion patterns. Measures 8.25 inches length, 3.5" width and 8 inches height, with a 4.5 inch opening. Pot is in excellent condition. I've owned it for at least 7 years.

About the Artist
Background: Raised in Cortez, Colorado, Blackmore learned foundational clay handling and firing techniques from Navajo potter Manuel Morgan. His style was deeply moved by legendary Santa Clara Pueblo potters like Maria Martinez and Joseph Lonewolf. While his early work (like this vessel) focused on intricate, single-tone black-on-black motifs, his later masterpieces evolved into extremely complex, multi-layered colorful slips and 24k gold inlay. See less