Polished Blackware Plate by Maria & Julian Martinez, c. 1940

This small polished blackware plate shows a floral design at its center, painted in negative space. The plate shows great precision and attention to detail. The technique is to polish the entire piece with a shiny finish and then to paint in the negative grey to create the design.

This piece measures 4 ¾” in diameter and shows minor ware, showing the piece’s age. The plate is signed by both Maria & Julian who often collaborated in the sculpting and design of their pieces.