Elmer Red Starr Sioux Sgraffito Bear Pottery Seed Jar Miniature 1 3/4\" x 1 1/2\" For Sale

A small treasure found at an estate in North Wilmington, Delaware.

Elmer Red Starr (1937-2018) was a highly regarded Sioux Potter born in Wisconsin who married Harriet Tafoya (sister of Annie Baca) of Santa Clara Pueblo and learned to make pottery from her.

This miniature seed pot or jar measures 1 3/4\" across and 1 1/2\" tall, features two intricately carved scenes of bears, and a bear paw with a inlaid turquoise piece held in the middle of it.

On one side the two bears are dynamically sparring or playing, perhaps? On the other is the powerful movement of a bear.

This small piece is dated \"77\". I myself have not seen any piece dated that early in his career.  It is signed Red Starr and next to the date has the letter u and number 6.

I see a significant matte finish or rubbed area to the otherwise shiny finish on one side of the little pot.

I can not imagine anything that would cause such damage, especially to a piece that seemed to be only on display. Perhaps the artist created it this way? Thinking of adding more sfgraffito design and then stopped? It does look a bit like the areas was being prepped and carved out as background for more work. Nevertheless, whether it happened during its creation or during its existence, the powerful and engaging designs make this a truly special creation of his.

Please see all pictures for condition and details. Enjoy!