Zia Pueblo Pottery Antlered Deer Tile by Unidentified Artist [SOLD]

Crafted by an anonymous potter from Zia Pueblo, this tile, likely created in 1935, features red-painted edges and a thin brown line framing simple stepped figures in the corners. The central motif portrays an antlered deer, a symbol deeply significant in Zia Pueblo pottery, representing vitality, abundance, and a profound connection to nature and the land. Within Zia culture, the deer embodies spiritual qualities of grace and harmony with the natural world, reflecting the community's reverence for the environment and cultural heritage. Beyond its aesthetic beauty, the deer motif in Zia pottery preserves ancestral traditions and narratives, playing a vital role in rituals and ceremonies, thus underscoring its enduring spiritual and cultural significance within Zia cosmology and daily life.

When clay is covered with a slip, as in the cream color of this tile, the potter must be careful not to touch that portion of the clay before it is fired. If touched, a fingerprint will be embedded into the slip. In the lower left corner of this tile, there is a clear fingerprint, most likely that of the potter.

There is a circular label on the back of the tile that reads "APPROVED - N.M. Association of Indian Affairs." In 1935 this label was placed on those pieces the judges believed were representative of good Indian art at the Saturday summer fairs under the portal of the Palace of the Governors.

The Zia Pueblo, a culturally rich community in the Southwest with a history of pottery-making, flourished with exquisite creations prior to the 20th century. The period before 1900 showcased Zia pottery at its peak, featuring intricate and magnificent designs that highlighted exceptional creativity and craftsmanship. However, as the 20th century began, Zia pottery underwent a significant artistic shift towards simplified aesthetics, with pieces adorned mainly by depictions of the Zia Bird and floral motifs, diverging from earlier elaborate styles. Despite this evolution, Zia pottery retained its allure, gaining renown for its unique geometric designs that continue to fascinate art enthusiasts and collectors. This enduring artistic tradition underscores Zia Pueblo's rich cultural heritage and enduring dedication to the art of pottery.

Condition: good condition

Provenance: this Zia Pueblo Pottery Antlered Deer Tile by Unidentified Artist is from a private collection

Reference: The Pottery of Zia Pueblo by Francis H. Harlow and Dwight P. Lanmon

Recommended Reading: Hopi & Pueblo Tiles: An Illustrated History by Kim and Pat Messier

TAGS: Zia Pueblo, Pueblo Pottery, Rosalia Medina Toribio; Southwest Indian Pottery, Harviana Pino Toribio; Isabel Medina Toribio