The Mata Ortiz, Acoma Pueblo Connection: Similarities in Design
Written by Palms Trading owner Guy Berger, today’s blog features a fascinating exercise in exploration and comparison of ancient and modern pottery styles and designs between Mata Ortiz and Acoma Pueblo. In his own words: “Paquime’ was an old village in... Read more
Kokopelli: Fertility Deity and God of Harvest
In many places in the world, primitive people used to carve images on rocks, often called Petroglyphs. The Kokopelli, a mystical flute player, is the most well known petroglyph in the American southwest. Petroglyph carvings of the Kokopelli figure date... Read more
The Apache Burden Basket
Once made for every day use in collecting or gathering wild foods, or to cultivate crops like corn, the Burden Basket of the Apache Tribe is one of the most quickly recognized items pertaining to Native American cultures today. The Apaches, traditionally nomadic... Read more
Artist Spotlight: Anita “Pauline” Romero
While we here at Palms treasure each relationship we have with the artists we work with daily, there are some artists, having worked with them over decades, and whom we see often, we feel special bonds with. Our August Artist Spotlight potter, Anita... Read more
The Owl: A Nuanced Symbol in Native American Cultures
Of the various usages of owl symbolism, Native American religions and their shaman priests have placed upon the bird numerous spiritual associations. To this day, practitioners of Native American spiritual traditions hold that the owl represents vision... Read more
Pueblo Pottery: Real, Faux, or Damaged? Six Tips from Expert Guy Berger
It isn’t always easy to tell if Pueblo pottery is real, damaged or a knockoff. Faux and poorly made Pueblo pots are sometimes sold to unsuspecting consumers in stores, and other venues. With that in mind, how does a collector know if the pottery has a crack... Read moreMaria Martinez: A Chronological Summary of her Various Time-Period Signatures
Famous San Ildefonso potter and the woman responsible for the renaissance of Pueblo pottery, Maria Martinez, used seven different signatures at various points in her career. Many of our customers have expressed interest in knowing how the signatures relate to the time... Read more
Artist Spotlight: Eugene Mitchell
July’s Artist Spotlight focuses on a Navajo silversmith who has been creating since 1952 and doing business with Palms since 2002. It is our great pleasure to introduce you to sandcast extraordinaire, Eugene Mitchell. Navajo silversmith Eugene... Read more
The Value of Turquoise: Determining Quality Through Four Factors
At Palms, we feel it is our privilege and our obligation to stay informed and educated regarding the various facets of our business and the products we sell. We also know it is important to pass this knowledge on to you, our valued customers. As turquoise has gained... Read more
Native American Ceremonies and Symbolism: Fascinating Tidbits
Throughout history, Native Americans have placed high regard on symbolism, ceremonies, and preserving tradition and culture. Here, we outline just a few samples of some interesting stories and symbols from several Native American cultures, pueblos and tribes.... Read more