Lot 114757

Jemez Pueblo Storyteller Pottery Doll by Ellen Toya - Large 11" Art Figure

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Jemez Pueblo Storyteller Pottery Doll by Ellen Toya - Large 11" Art Figure

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Current Bid: $15

(3 Bids)

by Ace Of Estates
August 16, 2026 2:00 PM MST
Timed Auction

Carefree, AZ, US 85377

Condition:
Very nice condition. No cracks or damage. Light wear on bottom. Minimal handling wear on the hand-painted matte slip surface consistent with gentle display. No chips or repairs observed.

Item Description
Weight: 4lbs 2.8 oz

Brimming with pure joy, warmth, and the rich oral traditions of the Southwest, this monumental Jemez Pueblo storyteller doll is a masterclass in Native American ceramic art. Handcrafted by the acclaimed Jemez potter Ellen Toya, this exceptional piece features a central storyteller figure with an open mouth—symbolizing the breath of life and the singing of sacred ancestral tales—cradling a slice of watermelon while surrounded by nine delightful, climbing children. In Pueblo culture, the storyteller doll represents the vital transmission of history, language, and values from elders to youth. The inclusion of watermelon is a deeply resonant symbol of abundance, community sharing, and the sweet nourishment of both body and spirit.

The artistry displayed here is nothing short of extraordinary. Each of the nine miniature figures is individually sculpted with its own whimsical personality, clinging playfully to the parent figure's back, shoulders, and legs. Toya’s command of natural earth slips—ranging from rich terracotta to deep charcoal black and creamy buff—creates a striking visual rhythm. This is a substantial, investment-grade piece of Pueblo art that brings an undeniable presence and soul to any fine collection.

About the Artist:
Active for decades in the Jemez Pueblo (Walatowa) of New Mexico, Ellen Toya is highly celebrated for her expressive, lively storyteller dolls. Coming from a lineage of talented clay artists, she continues to use traditional hand-coiling methods and natural clays harvested from sacred Pueblo lands, ensuring each creation is a unique testament to her cultural heritage.

  • Artist: Ellen Toya (Jemez Pueblo)
  • Material: Hand-coiled native clay and natural mineral slips
  • Height: 11.16 inches
  • Width: 7.14 inches
  • Depth: 5.96 inches
  • Weight: 4 lbs 2.8 oz
  • Signature: Signed "-ELLEN TOYA JEMEZ" on the underside


Flat rate shipping contiguous 48 states: $40.00

Only items pictured are what you will receive. We are not aware of any accessories that are not shown with the unit. If an item requires testing, we do not guarantee long term use. This is an estate item, history is unknown. We are not experts, we do not authenticate items unless otherwise noted. All sales are final. No refunds or returns.

Ref: HBB771 | PD1

Dimensions (HxWxD)
11.16" x 7.14" x 5.96"

Weight
4lbs 2.8 oz

Flat Shipping Rate
(Within Contiguous U.S.)

$40.00

Local Pickup
We offer local pickup of your item by appointment only. Once your payment has been processed, you will receive a follow-up email to schedule a pickup time on the specified dates listed below. Detailed directions to the pickup location will be provided once your appointment is confirmed.

Pick-Up Dates/Time:
By Appointment Tuesday 8/18/26, or Wednesday 8/19/26 ,10am to 4pm

Pick-Up Location:
The Town of Cave Creek, Spur Cross & Cave Creek Rd (exact address will be given after purchase is complete)

Item number:
114757

Ref:
HBB771
PD1
NAM820
NAM731
NAT202

  • Dimensions: 11.16" x 7.14" x 5.96"
  • Condition: Very nice condition. No cracks or damage. Light wear on bottom. Minimal handling wear on the hand-painted matte slip surface consistent with gentle display. No chips or repairs observed.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

ACH, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipping
Most items are eligible for shipping. Each listing includes a flat-rate shipping price for delivery within the Continental U.S. If a shipping price is not listed, it's likely that the item cannot be shipped. If you win multiple items, we will make every effort to combine them for shipping and apply a discount to the total shipping cost. However, please note that large and/or fragile items must be shipped individually.


International Bidders/ International Shipping
All invoices exceeding $1,000.00 USD must be settled through bank wire transfer. We can arrange shipping through a third-party shipper. Please note there are size limitations for each country that we can ship to. If you are unsure, please email and we can verify if it is within the acceptable dimensions. Also, some items may have shipping restrictions to your country. It is your responsibility to verify the legality of the item in your country or state before placing a bid. We will not ship items that are subject to restrictions. Shipping costs will be billed separately after payment for the auction items is received. We will combine and discount shipping fees where applicable.


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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $49 $5
$50 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 + $50