Etched Bear
by Dalawepi (Ergil Vallo, 1959 - 2005), Acoma/Hopi Pueblo
clay, pigment
2" high x 2 1/2" wide x 1" deep
Ergil F. Vallo, Sr. signed his pottery as “Dalawepi”, which means “color of the rainbow”. He was half Acoma and half Hopi. Ergil was 21 years of age when he began creating his artwork. He was inspired to continue the family tradition of crafting art by observing many of his family members create their art. He wanted to be an active participant and add to the legacy of a long-lived tradition.
Ergil primarily specialized in the incised black pottery. He used natural pollens and minerals to get the contrast in the brilliant colors on his designs which include Hopi kachinas, Mimbres animals, kiva steps and geometric designs.
