Zuni Pueblo Polychrome Heartline Deer Olla [R]

This is a traditional Zuni jar of the late 19^th century. It exhibits all of the traits of a jar of this period. It has a brown rim around the opening and a concave dark brown underbody. This vessel is Zuni in all respects, from the paste material, construction, and design elements. On the neck the decoration is quite traditional for this period.

The main body of the vessel has four double rows of heartline deer, each deer enclosed in an arched cave. Traditional Zuni medallions separate the heartline deer designs. The simplicity of the medallions on this jar is a designation of an earlier period. The medallions tended to get more elaborate in the early 20^th century.

The jar does not appear to have been used at the pueblo prior to being purchased by an outsider. There is no visible indication of wear or water damage. It does, however, possess a marvelous patina, testament to its age. UV examination reveals no repair, restoration or over-paint of the jar.

One may pursue the perfect example of traditional Zuni 19^th century pottery and wonder what that perfect example might be, and then it appears in the jar shown here. Tradition is important to Zuni Pueblo potters and it is expressed in this excellent jar that also displays a warm patina that evidences many years of lovingly being held in the hands of an owner.