"Datso Bitsi" Navajo Pottery Jar – 1979

Updated August 25, 2026

Lot number	42
Category	Pottery, China & Glass
Auction	Native Art, Vintage Bells & MCM Estate Treasures
Date	September 9, 2026 at 6:00 PM MST
Auction house	Grasons Estate Sales of Southern AZ
Location	Tucson, Arizona

Vintage Navajo pottery jar by Datso Bitsi, accompanied by its original Museum of Northern Arizona Navajo Craftsman Exhibition tag dated July 1979. The original tag identifies the maker as Datso Bitsi, place as Tsegi T.P., and article as a “jar.” It also retains its original $14.00 exhibition price notation and Museum of Northern Arizona markings. The hand-built jar measures approximately 6.5" tall with a 4.5" opening and features a rounded body, warm reddish-brown surface, dark fire-cloud markings and a distinctive raised, undulating/scalloped band around the upper portion. The surface and irregularities reflect its handmade character and traditional firing process. Datso Bitsi is a documented Navajo potter; published references on Navajo pottery specifically include Datso Bitsi among known Navajo potters working in the traditional style. Traditional Navajo pottery is typically hand-coiled and pit-fired, often displaying reddish-brown coloration and naturally occurring dark fire clouds. The original 1979 Museum of Northern Arizona exhibition tag is significant provenance and should remain with the jar. It directly documents the artist attribution, Navajo Craftsman Exhibition, date and place of origin rather than relying solely on a later collector attribution. Vintage condition with surface variations, firing marks, irregularities and age-related wear consistent with handmade pottery of this type. Please review photographs closely for condition. Measures approximately 6.5" tall x 4.5" opening. See photos for details and condition.

More lots in this auction

See all lots in Native Art, Vintage Bells & MCM Estate Treasures →