Lot 40
Mabel C. (Watchinpino) Brown (Native American - Acoma Pueblo, 1915-2004). One signed on underside of base. A charming pair of pottery owl figures by Acoma Pueblo artist Mabel C. Watchinpino Brown, whose work is celebrated for its warmth, humor, and immediately recognizable personality. These owls are modeled with rounded bodies and upright stances, their forms animated by wide eyes, prominent beaks, and outstretched wings that give each figure a lively, alert presence. Both figures are decorated with hand painted feather patterns in earthy brown and black pigments over a light clay ground, creating a rhythmic, scale like surface that wraps the body. The incised and painted plumage emphasizes the owls volume while lending a graphic quality characteristic of mid 20th century Acoma figural pottery. Subtle variations between the two figures suggest they were individually formed and painted rather than produced as exact matches, enhancing their appeal as a complementary but distinct pair. Size of larger: 4.1" W x 4.6" H (10.4 cm x 11.7 cm)
Together, this pair offers a delightful example of Mabel Browns figural style and the enduring creativity of Acoma Pueblo pottery traditions, combining folk charm, cultural continuity, and unmistakable character.
About the artist: Mabel C. Watchinpino Brown was a potter from Acoma Pueblo celebrated for her playful and imaginative figural ceramics. Among her most recognizable works are cow head pitchers, cleverly designed so that milk or cream is poured directly from the animals mouth. These distinctive vessels became her signature and remain closely associated with her name.
She began producing pottery in the 1950s, at a time when Route 66 tourism created new opportunities for Native artists to reach a wider audience. Brown quickly found success within this market, developing a recognizable style that appealed to collectors and travelers alike. Her pottery provided steady support for her household and remained central to her livelihood for much of her life.
Mabel Brown was married to Joseph Brown, the son of renowned potter Mary Concho Brown, born around 1881, and John Brown. Her artistic roots extended through her maternal line as well. Her mother was Cecilia Sarracino Watchinpino, and her sister, Juana Chavez, was also a potter known for creating cow head pitchers, underscoring a strong family tradition of ceramic artistry at Acoma Pueblo.
Provenance: private British Columbia, Canada collection, gifted from aunt in Tucson, Arizona, USA, acquired prior to 1994
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#200177
- Condition: One signed on underside of base. Both inscribed "Acoma, N.M." on underside of base. Nicks and abrasions to surfaces commensurate with age, but, otherwise, both are intact and in excellent condition.
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