Acoma Pueblo Black-on-White Canteen with Animal Designs [SOLD]

This pottery canteen was created by Marie Z. Chino of Acoma Pueblo. It is dated 1982, which means that it was completed during the final year of Chino's life. When viewing this large and impressive piece, the viewer will likely notice the skillful, confident nature of the artist's work.

The vessel form is typical, with the exception of its size—it is scaled up a bit from that of the average pueblo pottery canteen. Braided coil handles and a single spout protrude from the shoulder. A flat base allows the canteen to stand safely.

Chino's designs circle around the vessel's peak, with a four-sided floral element placed in the center. A variety of animal figures, plants, and storm elements are woven into the larger circular form that surrounds the central floral design. Additional elements and a trio of lines appear around the shoulder. The composition as a whole is complex and energetic. This canteen will appeal to many, and for good reason.

The bottom of the jar is signed Marie Z. Chino, Acoma, NM and dated 8-5-82.

Marie Z. Chino (1907-1982) is considered one of the significant ceramicists at Acoma and was the matriarch of a very talented family of potters. She is best known for her black-on-white pottery. Along with Lucy Lewis and Sarah Garcia, she led the revival of ancient pottery forms of the ancestral pueblo potters. She was one of the women who was inspirational in the movement to revive the use of ancient Mimbres designs on contemporary Acoma pottery. Chino passed away in 1982.

Condition: fair condition with some black pigment loss. No cracks, chips or repairs.

Provenance: this Acoma Pueblo Black-on-White Canteen with Animal Designs is from a private Santa Fe collection

Recommended Reading: Acoma & Laguna Pottery by Rick Dillingham

TAGS: Acoma Pueblo, pottery making, Carrie Chino Charlie, Rose Chino Garcia, Grace Chino, Marie Zieu Chino