Kewa (Santo Domingo) Pueblo Black-on-red Canteen [R]

Interestingly, there is not a canteen of this vessel shape pictured in the book A River Apart: the Pottery of Cochiti and Santo Domingo Pueblos.  The only information on canteens of this shape is published in the Fourth Annual Report of the BAE, 1882-1883.  Based on this publication, we have the following description and use of such a canteen.

This canteen is similar to documented canteens that have been referred to as "dumbbell canteens" because of their similarity to weight-training dumbbells. That dumbbell canteens have a shape different from the more traditional "mammary shape canteens" has been explained as being more convenient for carrying in a blanket roll over the small of the back. The reason for this shape has been attributed to a design convenient for use by a hunter. Other forms would not do, as the hunter must have the free use not only of his hands but also of his head that he may turn quickly this way or that in looking for or watching game. The canteen is probably early 20th century.

Condition: in very good condition with minor surface scratches

Provenance: from the collection of a gentleman from Chicago

Referenced Publications:  

• For a comprehensive discussion of the development of pueblo pottery vessel shapes and designs, read "Origin and Development of Form and Ornament in Ceramic Art" in the Fourth Annual Report of the Bureau of Ethnology 1882-'83.
•  To view a large selection of Cochiti and Kewa pottery, see A River Apart: the Pottery of Cochiti and Santo Domingo Pottery by Valerie K. Verzuh