This is an original rare Maria Martinez (Maria Montoya Poveka Martinez, 1887-1980) San Ildefonso Pueblo signed black on black pottery plate, signed “Marie” dating the piece to circa 1923-1925. This pottery plate is signed into the clay with the name Marie, which is documented as being the earliest known signature of Maria Montoya Poveka Martinez (1887-1980) Pond Lily dating the piece to circa 1923-1925 (The Legacy of Maria Poveka Martinez by Richard L. Spivey, 2003). At her earliest time she would do the pottery work and Julian would paint the designs, with his name being omitted in the early years because pottery was considered “woman’s work” (noted by King Galleries). After this starting in circa 1925-1943 Maria and Julian Martinez both signed the piece as “Marie + Julian”, this piece predates that. This pottery plate is the classic black on black finish in nice medium size with the top and bottom having an expert polished finish in a high luster and then top having a classic original geometric pattern, similar to other early Maria Martinez works. This plate is considered some of the earliest blackware of this historic and talented couple from the San Ildefonso Pueblo. The piece shows a good condition with fine original paint and no apparent major damages, such as cracks or breaks (one small craze line on the bottom and normal wear). Maria Montoya Poveka Martinez (1887-1980) Pond Lily of San Ildefonso Pueblo is probably the most famous of all pueblo potters. She and her husband, Julián Martinez (1885-1943) Pocano, discovered in 1918 how to produce the now-famous Black-on-black pottery, and they spent the remainder of their careers perfecting and producing it for museums and collectors worldwide. Julian unfortunately passed away at a young age in 1943 at San Ildefonso. Maria and Julian's son Popovi Da (1922-1971) began collaborating with Maria on her pottery in 1956, following a period when daughter-in-law Santana had been assisting. Popovi and his mom worked together until his death in 1971. Maria's sister, Clara, spent most of her adult life polishing pottery for Maria. Clara was deaf, so Maria supported her with this work. Maria's grandson Tony Da also rose to prominence as a potter and painter. Maria passed away in 1980, leaving behind a large body of work and a significant legacy. Measures overall 8.25 inch wide across / diameter by 1.75 inches high. Provenance: From a fine Bozeman, Montana collection.