Mata Ortiz Pottery Fancy Tail Goldfish:
Width - 4.25 inches
Height - 5 inches
Length - 8.75 inches
Weight - 1 pound 5 ounces
Here is one of Master Potter Eli Ortiz's exquisite Fish figures. To possess pottery from the master artist is a great thing. To have one of his animal depictions is a level of sophistication not often made available to the general public. This piece has the essential matte and metal finish typical of Señor Ortiz's style. It is the two finishes that combine to create the imagery. The surface is enveloped in checkered square patterns, which were a hallmark of the ancient Paquime symbolism. The pot as an entirety is strongly representative of the ancestors from a thousand years ago. This metallic black is nearly impossible to capture adequately in photos; the mirror effect reflects so much light. This is why it is good to refer to the video as well.
The plumpness shows a healthy fish. On the face, subtle points and designs reveal whiskers and eyes. The fins are sharply defined and delicate. The back rudder fin is so masterfully crafted that it even possesses the sense of movement.
NEVER handle this masterpiece by any of the fins, and always carry it with both hands.
Señor Ortiz does not sign his work at the bottom, but rather in unexpected areas, as with this fish.
Señor Ortiz's work is splendidly individualistic to him.
Pottery Rings suitable for shapes such as this Mata Ortiz Pottery Fancy Tail Goldfish are not produced, so be sure to have a plush cloth ready for displaying it on.
Be sure to see my other Mata Ortiz Pottery, the finest offered on this site!
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In the 1970s, a young man began experimenting with recreating ancient pottery he came across. He used the same clay sand mixtures made from materials found in the area where the ancients lived and made their pottery. The same firing techniques using the same local materials eventually created the same magnificent results. Half a century later, much of the village of Mata Ortiz has adopted these incredible skills for creating masterpieces, with each artist contributing their sense of beauty. The designs are bold, earthy, and individualistic.
Paint brushes consisting of one or two human hairs create the finest lines. Paints are developed from minerals found in the surrounding desert. These creations are truly unique transformations that can only be made by this small village from its soil.