08.12.23 San Ildefonso

The Sons and Daughters of
San Ildefonso Pueblo

By Rebekah Powers | August 2023

Generational legacy is the spine that holds the content of a culture, and for San Ildefonso Pueblo, that legacy shines brightly. Their most famous daughter was undoubtedly Maria Martinez. Her lineage continues through the familial line into a bright new future. Chimayo Trading strives to highlight the best of the best in our curated collection of San Ildefonso potters. One memorable matriarch is Carmelita Dunlap.

Carmelita Dunlap (1925-1999), Martha Appleleaf

Carmelita Dunlap is the niece of Maria Martinez and rose to great acclaim through her exquisite work. Carmelita was invited to the White House to meet the president, her work was shown at the Smithsonian Museum, and she was included in a show at the Maxwell Museum titled “The Seven Families in Pueblo Pottery” among many other distinguished awards and recognition. Carmelita and Carlos Dunlap (himself a potter) chose poetic names for their son and daughters, all of whom have become well known for their meticulous design sense and skills. Gloria Yearflower, Martha Appleleaf, Jeannie Mountain Flower, Linda Turquoise Lake, Cynthia Star Flower, and Carlos Sunrise are the sons and daughters who carry the clay forward.

Maria Martinez (1887-1980), Cynthia Starflower

One name to distinguish from her sisters and brother is Martha Appleleaf who shares the line of talent that runs through with her son, Erik Sunbird Fender. Their names along with Carmelita Dunlap will echo down the canyons of Time.

Chimayo Trading hosts the works of the San Ildefonso Pueblo potters with great pride and we encourage you to experience these exquisite vessels, decorative plates and wedding vases in person. To pick up a piece of history, visit Chimayo Trading in Ranchos.

Carlos Sunrise (1958-1981), Erik Fender (Than Tside’h)

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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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