About the Object

This San Ildefonso black-on-red lidded jar features red slip with black painted decoration and inscription. The jar centers on its impressive form and design. The vessel’s shape is rotund through its shoulders and body. The lid is dome-shaped with a small handle on top and sits on a ridge. Covering the red slip includes multiple black fire clouds from the original firing process. The decoration on this jar includes framing lines and scallop patterns on both the body and lid. The focal decoration is a pattern of five open elements that are framed with black-filled scallop design that may represent clouds. Each motif includes depictions of birds and other forms.

Additional Information

The inscription on the lid reads “Roybal & Dieguito,” which is a possible reference to the maker Marianita Roybal and her brother. Roybal was a highly esteemed potter throughout the 19th century and was known to create works with inscriptions.