Elson Seckletstewa
Winter Sun
5 3/4"
H x 6 1/4" D
Because of his close association
with Fannie L. Polacca, Elson Seckletstewa has had the opportunity
to observe Fannie's father, Tom Polacca, as he's progressed through
the history of Hopi-Tewa pottery innovating the art with a style
of his own.
As a result, Elson learned
the valuable trade has produced sgraffito-style pottery of his
own, in a unique and distinct style.
This piece depicts the role
and relationship of Father Sun with Mother Earth. The sun face
motif appears on opposing sides, while alternating sides depict
the corn stalk.
Hopi pottery is known for
its highly symbolical nature. This piece is no exception. The
"setting" around the sun exhibits a similar feature
as the cloven hoof of the deer or antelope, while subtle straight
lines depict rain, and zig-zag or "step" designs indicate
thunder - each element in its relationship to the heavens - and
with one another.
The same setting appears around
the cornstalk, with terraced-earth gardens, and perhaps "pahos"
or prayer feather shrines pointing upward toward the sky.
