Kewa (Santo Domingo) Pueblo Polychrome Olla [SOLD]

Occasionally a potter can take tradition to a new level.  Everything can be done the same as it has been for centuries, yet the outcome can be remarkably different.  This jar is an excellent example of a potter at Kewa Pueblo using all the techniques she had been taught yet producing something that is above what the outcome generally would be. 

The vessel shape on this jar is perfect, or as perfect as any hand coiled jar can be.  It is balanced in scale by being the same height as width and the jar was divided into almost equal thirds for the design.  The upper design around the neck is comprised of beautifully-shaped ovoid elements that were formed by painting the edges with black and leaving the cream slip to emerge as the design—a negative approach.

The mid-body was designed with absolutely perfectly executed black triangles which leaves one to decide if the triangles are the design or are the resulting cream elements defined by the black triangles? A simple wide red band placed to divide the neck and body designs is an artistic concept that adds immeasurably to the visual appeal of the jar.

The jar is traditional Kewa Pueblo in shape and design, yet it is levels above in visual appeal based simply on an artistic approach by a potter who was not afraid to go beyond the ordinary.

Condition:  excellent condition with crazing of the surface slips.

Provenance: from a gentleman in Santa Fe

Recommended Reading:  A River Apart: the Pottery of Cochiti and Santo Domingo Pueblos by Valerie Verzuh