Matt Vail has crafted a Horse Hair Bear with some fine etchings for decorations. The bear is 8-1/2" long and 5-1/2" tall. Matt has etched his name into the bottom of the feet of the bear. This is a sure treasure!

THE BEAR STORY:  Many Native American Tribes honored the spirit of the bear as a magical being, the Shaman of the animal world. The Bear is considered a totem for healing, protection and good fortune.

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.

Retail Cost is $65.00.

Item # is A-463