Historic Kewa (Santo Domingo) Polychrome Water Jar [R]

This is one of the more unique Kewa jars we have encountered—not from construction or vessel shape, but from the applied design. The floral elements in black and brick red are typical of Kewa designs from the 1920s and 1930s, but the diamondback rattlesnake band twisting around over and under the floral elements is a design I have not encountered before.

The vessel exhibits the classic traits of Kewa Polychrome. The under body is stone-polished bare paste with a red slip applied over the polish and a rag-wiped red band applied just below the design area. The cream/off-white is rag-wiped bentonite slip with black and brick red vegetal designs and subtle fire clouding and outstanding patina. There is a ceremonial break through the double framing lines just above the base of the jar. All these items contribute to the jar being very traditional Kewa Pueblo in origin.

Condition: There is some exfoliation of the slip as a result of the jar being used as a water jar but nothing of great significance. A small rim chip is the only physical damage and it is of minor significance.