Who painted Portfolio XVII, Plate 603: Pottery Burners at Santa Clara?

Portfolio XVII, Plate 603: Pottery Burners at Santa Clara was painted by Edward S. Curtis in 1905.

Where can I see Portfolio XVII, Plate 603: Pottery Burners at Santa Clara?

Portfolio XVII, Plate 603: Pottery Burners at Santa Clara is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artwork

Portfolio XVII, Plate 603: Pottery Burners at Santa Clara

Edward S. Curtis , 1905

Portfolio XVII, Plate 603: Pottery Burners at Santa Clara is a work on paper by Edward S. Curtis. It dates from 1905 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

The title says this is about pottery burners, likely showing a real job from the early 1900s.

This photo shows two people working by a small fire in an open field. One is kneeling near the flames, while the other stands nearby holding a long stick. The scene is hazy, with smoke rising and a cloudy sky above. Their clothing looks simple and practical, blending into the earthy tones around them.

The title says this is about pottery burners, likely showing a real job from the early 1900s. The soft lighting and muted colors make the scene feel quiet and focused on daily life.

Check out more by Edward S. Curtis (American, 1868–1952) to see how he captured other moments like this.

Overview

Portfolio XVII, Plate 603: Pottery Burners at Santa Clara is a photograph by Edward S. Curtis, created in 1905. It is part of a larger portfolio and is currently held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts two individuals working by a small fire in an open field, likely capturing a traditional pottery burning process at Santa Clara. The scene conveys a sense of quiet, everyday labor.

Technique & Style

The photograph is characterized by soft lighting and muted, earthy tones, which create a hazy atmosphere. The use of these visual elements emphasizes the tranquility of the scene and focuses attention on the workers' daily activity.