Kokopelli Horse Hair Pottery by Navajo, Matt Vail. Kokopelli is 7" tall and 4-1/2" wide. He has etched 'M. Vail - Navajo' on the underneath of the figure. Matt has added some traditional etchings on the front of the Kokopelli for decoration. A truly unique and lovely piece. <p>

The Navajo Vail family is well known for their contemporary style of pottery known as “Horse Hair”.  They pour a ceramic white slip substance into a mold forming whatever shape of pot or item they want.  They let it dry—clean and polish it—then fire it in a kiln. Next a thin layer of horse hair (taken during grooming) is artistically spread over the surface of the pottery—by hand.  Precise timing and temperatures are required to allow the horse hair to correctly burn into the clay.  The hair from the mane creates ’fine’ lines. The hair from the tail produces ’thick’ lines.  As the hair is consumed by the fire, it twists and burns, each piece of pottery becoming an original—never to be duplicated again—a unique piece of art. 

     They clean the finished piece with a dry material producing a unique marbleized pot.  No paint or glaze is used.  The family finishes each piece by applying stones (often turquoise), hides, or artistic etchings to the pot.  The process is hazardous and time consuming.   Every original design is  made in New Mexico.

     The Vail Family proudly signs every piece.  The parents have taught their art to their children so these unique, originals continue to be made.

< THE KOKOPELLI STORY: Known as the hump-backed flute player, images of Kokopelli can be found throughout the Southwest. Known as the “Casanova of the Cliffs”, he is known for his gift of fertility, good luck, and good health. Today he is known as a sign of prosperity and good fortune.

Item # A-579 

Retail Cost is $35.00.