Product Details

P.J. Gilliam Stewart (Cherokee Nation) Cherokee Friendship Pottery Contemporary Hand carved smoke fired pottery with embossed copper turtle and copper banding This handcrafted pottery vessel by Cherokee artist P.J. Gilliam Stewart reflects themes of friendship, longevity, and cultural continuity through both material and symbolism. The carved interwoven surface references traditional Cherokee basket weaving patterns and the interconnected nature of community and relationships. A hand embossed copper turtle symbolizes long life and prosperity, while the copper band encircling the vessel references traditional Cherokee metalwork. The vessel was smoke fired using dry grasses and pine needles, creating the rich atmospheric finish unique to each firing. Balancing functional form with cultural storytelling, the work embodies the continuation of contemporary Native American ceramic traditions through handcrafted process and symbolic design. Curated Private Collection — K² Pottery Studios