This is a lovely blackware Santa Clara bowl with traditional bear claw symbols. The bowl measures 4" in height. Although small in size, it is huge in personality. The bowl is decorated with two incised bear paw prints, one on each side. The traditional bear paw design is also reminiscent of a sweet smiley face.
Santa Clara pottery often uses traditional designs such as bear prints, water serpents, kiva steps, feathers, and other nature motifs. This sweet bowl was formed and fired by Romona Sisneros using traditional techniques.
 
The vessel was purchased at auction (sticker still attached) in the mid-1980s to-early 1990s, and has had one owner since. The vessel has been on display in a non-smoking home in an open, yet protective display case. The vessel would be perfect for the currently popular farmhouse decor that emphasizes contrasting between light and dark colors or anywhere there is a desire for ethnic art, smooth designs or a wish for natural earthy elements.