One Of The Last

By Rebekah Powers | May 2024

Cynthia Starflower, daughter of Carmelita Dunlap, is one of the last Grand Master Potters of San Ildefonso Pueblo. After her mother’s death on 2000, she became 2nd in line to Maria Martinez as a leader, mentor and a superb representative of Pueblo Pottery. Maria, of course, is the most famous matriarch among them all and recovered the ancient ways of firing black pottery.

Cynthia Starflower, San Ildefonso Pueblo, 16” x 10.5”

Carmelita and her son Carlos Dunlap, (1958-1981) worked together to rediscover and revive the special “sunrise chocolate brown pottery” in the 1970’s. Cynthia continued to make the special chocolate Pueblo brown-ware to honor her brother’s name and her mothers memory.

One of the last to inherit the honorable mantle of Grand Master Potter, Cynthia Starflower is a name to remember. San Ildefonso Pueblo, known for the lineage of master potters, now has new life through the pride, talent and dignity handed down from one generation to the next, like kiva steps leading to the sacred center.

Cynthia Starflower, San Ildefonso Pueblo, 2.75” x 5.5” – SOLD

Historic and contemporary examples of San Ildefonso pottery are currently being featured at Chimayo Trading. A most rare red vase made by a young Maria Martinez, and two rather large black bowls by her, newly acquired. Sparkling works by Eric Fender and Martha Appleleaf and many more stars in their constellation are on display.

Buff-on Red w/White by Maria Martinez (1884 – 1980), San Ildefonso Pueblo, ca. 1923-1925

So much more than a trading post, we show museum quality historic art work of the Southwest, antiquities from around the world and a collection of contemporary painters and sculptors that will astound you. Walking through our gallery rooms is an education and an inspiration that is available every day.

Avanyu Pot by Maria Martinez (1884 – 1980), San Ildefonso Pueblo, ca. 1928, Maria Martinez & Julian Martinez, Signed “Marie”

Carmelita Dunlap (1925-2000), San Ildefonso Pueblo, 13.5″ x 12″

It doesn’t hurt that we are in the shadow of the Saint Francis Church of Assisi and across the parking lot from the fantastic New Mexican restaurant, Ranchos Plaza Grill, where history meets art for lunch: a destination location.

Kiva Bowl by Carlos Sunrise Dunlap (1958-1981), San Ildefonso Pueblo 1978, 12.5″ x 11″

Martha Appleleaf – b.1950, San Ildefonso Pueblo, 8” x 7.5”

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Come to the gallery to see where History Meets Art in Taos..

#1 Saint Francis Church Plaza
Ranchos de Taos, NM 87557

575.758.0504

We buy individual pieces or whole collections.

Contact us for the evaluation and resale of your collectible art.
We’re interested in locating relevant collections and original New Mexico artwork for purchase. We buy historic and contemporary relevant paintings, pottery, jewelry, textiles, weavings and more.

Contact us directly to discuss and evaluate your collection. If you’re an artist, contact us about the possibility of selling your art on consignment or direct wholesale purchase.

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