Native American Horsehair Pottery by Alynssa Gilmore

Name: Native American Horsehair Pottery by Alynssa Gilmore
SKU: NP-110
Price: 69 USD
Availability: OutOfStock

$69.00

This one–of–a–kind vase is a timeless piece that is sure to be an eye–catching centerpiece in any home. It is beautifully crafted using traditional techniques inherited by Native American Navajo artist Alynssa Gilmore, featuring intricate etched designs and an elegant horsehair pattern. The iridescent paint gives the pottery a hint of sparkle that brings out the natural richness of the red pottery clay. This collectible is a special addition to any fan of Native American pottery. Whether used as a decorative display or as a gift for a loved one, this vase is something to be admired.

The horse holds great importance in many indigenous cultures, symbolizing attributes such as stamina, agility, beauty, and strength. Among the Navajo people, horses have long been revered as sacred animals, playing a vital role in their history, traditions, and daily lives. The introduction of horses to the Navajo tribe by Spanish colonizers in the 16th century revolutionized their way of life, allowing for increased mobility, trade, and hunting capabilities.

As the horsehair is laid onto the still-hot pottery, it leaves behind intricate patterns that evoke the flowing manes and tails of these majestic creatures. The strands of hair, when exposed to the heat, curl, twist, and weave, create mesmerizing designs reminiscent of the horse’s spirit in motion. The resulting patterns often resemble graceful wisps, flowing lines, or smoky tendrils, capturing the essence of the horse’s vitality and energy.

Navajo horsehair pottery embodies not only the artistic expression of the Navajo people but also serves as a powerful cultural symbol. It reflects the enduring relationship between the Navajo tribe and the horse, encapsulating the values of strength, resilience, and the interconnections of humans with the natural world.

Size: 4.75″W x 4.75″H

Artist: Alynssa Gilmore

Out of stock

SKU: NP-110 Categories: Native American Crafts, Navajo Horsehair Pottery Tags: Alynssa Gilmore, Native American Crafts, navajo horsehair pottery, Red

Description

Navajo horsehair pottery is a distinctive form of pottery that draws its inspiration from the horse, a revered and significant animal in many cultures. The horse holds great symbolic importance to the Navajo tribe and is seen as a powerful embodiment of stamina, agility, beauty, and strength. This symbolism is beautifully captured in the creation of Navajo horsehair pottery.
Once the pottery is formed, it undergoes the firing process to harden the clay. After the initial firing, the potter meticulously selects strands of horsehair, sourced from the tail or mane of a horse. The horsehair is then delicately placed onto the hot pottery, allowing it to make direct contact with the surface.
As the horsehair is applied, it reacts to the heat, creating captivating patterns and designs. The strands of hair curl, twist, and intertwine, forming intricate lines, wisps, and smoky tendrils. These organic and ethereal patterns are a visual representation of the horse’s grace and spirit, infusing the pottery with symbolism and cultural significance.
The horsehair decoration process pays homage to the horse’s attributes and the values it represents in Navajo culture. The resulting pottery captures the essence of stamina, agility, beauty, and strength, symbolizing the interconnections of the Navajo people with the natural world and their profound respect for the horse.
Navajo horsehair pottery serves as a testament to the artistic skills of the Navajo artisans and their deep cultural heritage. Each piece reflects the harmony between nature and human creativity, showcasing the enduring bond between the Navajo people and the horse. Today, this unique form of pottery continues to be appreciated for its aesthetic appeal, cultural significance, and the timeless values it represents. Each of these Navajo horsehair pots is one of a kind.