Effigy images are not common in Hopi pottery. See the “Category” listing for effigy pots in this collection. The pot discussed here is a miniature version of a similar but larger Nampeyo effigy pot in the collection, 2007-16. Please see that catalog entry for a more-detailed discussion of Nampeyo and effigy pots.
I attribute 2013-14 to Nampeyo based on similarities between the two vessels. The faces on both have the same sloped orientation, pointed nose, red framing line around the nose and almond-shaped eyes and mouth. The form and image on 2007-16 are more elaborate because the jar is substantially larger, but a strong family resemblance indicates that the two pots were made by the same hand. Ed Wade evaluated the larger effigy pot for me and detailed the characteristics he believes mark it as “by Nampeyo.” Please see the entry for 2007-16 for that discussion. Jar 2013-14 displays a polychromatic hair braid on the rear of the head—a feature lacking on the larger pot.
The chin was in part formed by pushing out the inside of the pot, leaving a depression on the inside that seems to be an imprint of Nampeyo’s finger. The pot is well formed and carefully finished. The painting is confident and expressive.
This little person has a lot of character and visual impact, particularly when paired with the larger version, like a child with a parent.
