This marriage-anniversary vase is an original and contemporary piece of hand-made Iroquois pottery. The woman and man look toward nature to seek powers (attributes) that will enhance their union. They ask for the life, health, growth and fertility of the woodland flowers. They ask for the powerful instincts of nurturing, family, guidance and survival of the wolf (clan) as the wolf has the title “Pathfinder”. They ask for the knowledge and wisdom of good health and well being of the bear (clan) as the bear has the title “Keeper of the Medicines”. The medicines are the woodland flowers. They ask for the strength, vision and courage of the “Guardian Eagle” and the longevity of the turtle (clan). The turtle symbolizes the continent of North America or “ Turtle Island ”, the balance (marriage) of the fertile land and life-sustaining water. They ask to be part of the harmonious and prolific order of the laws and forces of nature as symbolized by the blending of the geometric or linear with the circular designs on the sphere of clay. They ask to be part of the sacred and continuous life cycles of renewal as symbolized by the various circles, i.e. dotted rim. The earth is part of an infinity (as symbolized by the stars and planets) of dynamic order continuously rejuvenation and evolving through cycles. The diamonds are wampum belt designs symbolizing friendship.

Steven T. Smith

Gah-loon-yah-day

(Standing Sky)

Mohawk Potter