Overview
A contemporary Navajo (Diné) terracotta jar featuring intricate sgraffito etching through multi-colored slips. The vessel is characterized by its ruffled 'pie-crust' rim and a band of geometric motifs including…
Preliminary identification
Dennison Billy Navajo Sgraffito Pottery Jar, 1990
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
In the high desert of the American Southwest, a revolution in clay took place during the late 20th century as Navajo artists moved beyond purely functional vessels to create intricate works of fine art.
Maker / Origin
Dennison Billy is a recognized Navajo potter known for his precision in the sgraffito technique and his sophisticated use of multi-toned slips.
Condition & Value
The piece appears to be in excellent vintage condition with no visible chips or cracks. There is some minor adhesive residue on the base from a previous label, but the delicate matte slip surface remains well-preserved.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD