Navajo Hand-Etched Horsehair Vase by Ben Billy

This vase has a presence. Ben Billy shapes each piece into a classic ovoid form, then hand-carves fine-line geometric patterns across the surface — raindrop and feather motifs along the upper half, step and horizon patterns anchoring the base. The upper section is polished to a soft sheen, letting the clay's natural character come through.

The horsehair firing does the rest. While the pot is still white-hot from the kiln, strands of real horsehair are laid across it, scorching into permanent carbon trails that weave unpredictably through the carved lines. A deep royal purple at the top fades into warm sunset orange and golden ochre, grounded by a midnight black base. Signed "BL Navajo" on the bottom.

• Artist: Ben Billy (Navajo)
• Technique: Hand-etched Sgraffito with authentic horsehair firing
• Dimensions: 4.14" H x 4" W
• Weight: Approximately 9 oz
• Signature: Hand-signed "BL Navajo" on the base

Handle with clean, dry hands. Avoid moisture and abrasive cleaners. Display away from direct sunlight to preserve the glaze tones.

Ben Billy is a Navajo artist known for his precise Sgraffito etching technique and mastery of horsehair firing, creating pieces that blend traditional symbolism with contemporary form.