Large Hopi Storage Jar by Nampeyo with Eagle Tail Design, c.1900

This definitive example of Nampeyo's mature work dates to 1900. The huge storage jar shows Nampeyo's expert molding and is decorated with the final version of the famous eagle tail design she developed throughout her career, and later passed down to her descendants. Interestingly, the mouth of the jar is framed with a five point red pentagram rather than her usual square, with the eagle tail design repeating five instead of four times around the body of the jar. The white slip predates her yellowware, making this an early example of this classic design. The design shows eagle tails dropping down, with curling talons on each side. The jar measures 9" height and 13" diameter, and is in excellent condition with no repair.