Vintage Lois Medina Zia Pueblo Polychrome Miniature Olla w/Traditional Zia Bird For Sale

A wonderful signed miniature polychrome pottery olla by Lois Medina (1959–2003) of Zia Pueblo, New Mexico, from the distinguished Medina family of Pueblo potters.Hand formed and painted, this petite vessel features a bold traditional Zia bird wrapping around the body. The bird is rendered in warm red, black and cream tones, complemented by strong geometric elements and a diagonally striped rim band. The red-painted interior and underside beautifully complement the exterior decoration.Despite its miniature scale, the design has considerable visual presence. The bird extends around the vessel rather than appearing as a small isolated motif, allowing the composition to change as the pot is turned.The underside is signed “Lois Medina … Zia.”An appealing example for a collection of Native American pottery, Pueblo pottery, Southwestern art or miniature vessels.ARTIST BIOLois Medina (1959–2003) was a Zia Pueblo potter born into the highly regarded Medina pottery family. She was the daughter of noted Zia potter Sofia Medina, granddaughter of Juanita Toribio Pino, and great-granddaughter of Rosalea Medina Toribio. Her brother Marcellus Medina also became an accomplished artist and potter.MEASUREMENTSHeight: 3.5 inches
Diameter/Width: approximately 3.5 inchesPERIODLate 20th CenturyEstimated date: circa 1975–1985