Is this anything important?

This vase stands 4 1/2" tall and measures 3 1/2" across the top. Signed LS. Inside is a little crude.

 

This is traditional Navajo pottery, handmade from local clay, with an applique corncob design, fired in a bonfire, and coated with pinon pine pitch.

It lacks the commercial appeal of Southwest pueblo pottery, and generally sells for less, so would probably be considered more in the folk art category, but there are collectors. It began appearing on the market in the 1960s.

There's a relatively small number of potters making this type of pottery, most living in the Shonto-Cow Springs area of the Reservation. Two references are Navajo Pottery, Traditions & Innovations by Russell Hartman and Jan Musial, and Navajo Folk Art by Chuck and Jan Rosenak. The signature "LS" isn't mentioned in either book, but it may be that of Loretta Shortman, niece of Bertha and Silas Claw (known for this type of pottery.) I've seen the signature before, and even have a piece myself, but haven't been able to positively identify who the potter is.

 

Thanks! Taupou!

 

@Taupou, if you also do jewelry, would you take a look at this? Thanks.

https://www.antiquers.com/threads/silver-turquoise-pendant-earrings-dishta-style.21708/