Storyteller #1

Media - 1997.124.166 - SAAM-1997.124.166_2 - 129292
Copied Louis Naranjo, Storyteller #1, November 14, 1987, fired clay, slip and beeweed, 9 3811 188 14 in. (23.828.321.0 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Chuck and Jan Rosenak and museum purchase made possible by Ralph Cross Johnson, 1997.124.166

Artwork Details

Title
Storyteller #1
Date
November 14, 1987
Dimensions
9 3811 188 14 in. (23.828.321.0 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Chuck and Jan Rosenak and museum purchase made possible by Ralph Cross Johnson
Mediums Description
fired clay, slip and beeweed
Classifications
Keywords
  • Figure group
  • Fantasy — winged being
  • Performing arts — music — voice
  • Recreation — leisure — storytelling
Object Number
1997.124.166

Artwork Description

Louis Naranjo created traditional Cochiti images, such as dancers, hunters, and animals. His Storyteller sculptures show figures surrounded by children, their eyes closed and their mouths open as if they are singing traditional songs. He created his signature Storyteller Bears based on observations while hunting. These are also shown with many cubs as if they, too, are telling a story or singing a song. (Chuck and Jan Rosenak, Museum of American Folk Art Encyclopedia, 1990)