Pot with Geometric Design
by Priscilla Naminga Nampeyo (1924-2008), Hopi Pueblo
clay, pigment
2 3/8" high x 2 1/2" diameter
Priscilla Namingha Nampeyo was born to Rachel Namingha Nampeyo and Emerson Namingha in 1924. Her grandparents were Annie and Will Healing, her great-grandmother Nampeyo of Hano. Priscilla learned how to make pottery from her mother and her great-grandmother.
Priscilla always made her pottery using the methods, styles and designs taught her by her mother and great-grandmother. Among her favorite designs were eagle tails, stars, migration patterns, birds, parrots, dragonflies, feathers and clouds. Her work is found private collections around the world and in museums such as the Heard Museum in Phoenix, the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff and the Hopi Cultural Center Museum at Second Mesa.
Priscilla passed on to her children the traditional Hopi-Tewa art of pottery making. Among them were Bonnie Chapella Nampeyo, Randall Sahmie, Jean Sahmie, Nyla Sahmie and Rachel Sahmie. All became award-winning potters. Priscilla passed away peacefully at Hopi Pueblo in 2008.
