Gathering around the Vessel
Original colored drawing/painting on paper • Attributed to the circle of Amado Maurilio Peña Jr. or a contemporary Southwest Regional artist
Style & Movement
Contemporary Native American / Southwest Regionalism
Medium & Technique
Mixed media including colored pencil, pastel, and watercolor; featuring soft blending, precise line work for geometric patterns, and layered color fields
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1980-1995)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 36 inches; Landscape format
Subject Description
A stylized, symmetrical composition depicting figures in traditional Southwest textiles (likely Navajo or Pueblo patterns) leaning inward toward a central pottery vessel. The figures are rendered with simplified, elongated forms, emphasizing the geometric beauty of the blankets and the cultural significance of the vessel.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; the work appears stable within its frame, though slight fading may be present due to light exposure
Estimated Market Value
$500 - $1,200 (assuming it is an original work and not a commercial print)
Auction Estimate
$300 - $600
Provenance History
Likely acquired from a Southwest art gallery or regional art fair; no visible signatures or labels are discernible in the photograph to confirm specific previous ownership
Art Historical Significance
Representing the commercial peak of Southwest Regionalism, this work reflects the blending of traditional Indigenous motifs with modern aesthetic sensibilities, popularized in art hubs like Santa Fe during the late 20th century.
Notable Features
Distinctive custom-carved matting that echoes the geometric motifs of the artwork, creating a thematic bridge between the image and the frame
Condition Issues
Possible light-induced fading of pigments; the paper may have slight undulation (cockling) behind the mat; the frame shows minor wear consistent with age
Conservation Recommendations
Recommend inspection for acid-free matting; replace glass with UV-protective acrylic or glass; display away from direct sunlight to prevent further fading