Native American Santo Domingo Pueblo earthenware pottery Storyteller Figurine signed by Tenorio.  Includes 7 children (1 holding a doll). Artist signed on the bottom. 

The figurine is 3 1/4" tall and is signed on the base. Good condition. Stunning, vintage Storyteller, handmade and painted by Tenorio of the Santo Domingo Tribe (Kewa Tribe) in New Mexico. It is made of natural clay that was kiln fired and measures 3 1/4"H, 3" long (from back to front) and 2 1/4" wide. 

See photos for full description and to assess the condition of the item. 

Storyteller figurines are sometimes called "Singing mothers," with many children. The oral tradition is very important to Native American cultures. Pottery-making techniques are passed down from generation to generation by word of mouth from master to apprentice. Storytelling is often used as a teaching tool to instill the young generation with traditional cultural values and beliefs. All Native American Indian storyteller dolls (and their listeners) are all shaped or painted with open mouths. Some storyteller dolls are individual figures, most Native American Indian storyteller figurines are joined by at least one listener: a child or an animal.