Acoma Pueblo Monochromatic Design Small Pottery Jar [SOLD]

This charming historic Acoma Pueblo pottery jar is traditional in vessel shape and design layout for a jar of the period.  The strong dark brown pigment design on the shoulder is a series of birds, as denoted by the eyes.  The design could either be defined as a white leaf-shape element with parallel lines across the center, or a dark brown bird’s head with an eye.  The latter is most likely the intent of the artist.

The design below the mid-point of the jar consists of a chain of brown rectangles with an oval in the center of each that collectively form a chain around the body.  Each of these white ovals has been painted with a green vegetal source, probably boiled pine needles. It has been stated that applications of such a vegetal paint is an indication of the vessel having served in a ceremonial event.  Once it has served that purpose, it no longer is considered a ceremonial vessel and is available to be used or sold.

A paper label affixed to the underside has the word Acoma in a beautiful hand script and the date 1894. It is not known by whom or when that label was applied.  It is the style label used by merchants.

Condition: very good condition with expected wear abrasions

Provenance: this Acoma Pueblo Monochromatic Design Small Pottery Jar is from a gentleman from Colorado

Recommended Reading: Acoma & Laguna Pottery by Rick Dillingham

Relative Links: Southwest Indian Pottery, Acoma Pueblo, Historic Pottery