Welcome to
First People Potsan online catalog of 600+ pieces of Native American artwork owned by a private collector, described by Cowboys & Indians Magazine as “a valuable resource for collectors, galleries, and scholars.”
2026-03 Jar with avian and eagle-tail designs
The abstract avian and eagle-tail designs on this jar are common designs on pots from Hopi, but the exquisite detail of painting and subtle variations of design are both extraordinary. That quality is typical of Karen Abeita’s work. Form: Design: Design...
2026-02 Monochromatic seedjar
This jar’s upward-expanding shape, unique designs, and blushed background are both unsettling and exceptional. The jar is also rare. Pam does not make much pottery; the collection has only one other...
2026-01: Double-lobed canteen
Large lobe: 5.0” h X 3.875 “ w Small lobe: 4.0625” h X 3.375” w Bi-lobed canteens are a tradition at Acoma Pueblo, just west of Santa Fe, and are less-frequently made at a number of the Rio Grande pueblos....
2025-15 Narrow-necked spirit-being jar
The neck is 1.125-inches high. This is a graceful but clunky jar with an inventive, engaging design. Its maker was a brilliant, iconoclastic artist adept in many mediums. Randall Sahmie (1950--2008) was the fourth of...
2025-14: Figural canteen
The round body is 5.3125” wide. From bellybutton to back is 3.25”. Figural jars from Hopi are rare, but this collection contains two by Nampeyo (2007-16 and 2013-14). Hopi figural canteens depicting...
2025-13 Nampeyo playing with a Polacca pot
The neck is about 1.0-inch high. This rather worn and crudely-painted pot turns out to be a gold mine of information, but learning its story requires an extended investigation and...
