Rare Acoma Pueblo Polychrome Jar with Interior Orange Painted Flower Design c. 1900

This Acoma Pueblo Polychrome Jar is a beautifully painted example that stands out for its rare interior decoration. The jar features two wide bands of orange, red, and black design work, a red base, and a finely fluted black-painted rim that lends elegance to the form. While the exterior displays the crisp, balanced geometry typical of fine Acoma pottery, the real surprise is found inside the vessel.

Painted in orange at the bottom of the interior is a flower-like form — an unusual and infrequently seen feature. A small number of Acoma jars and bowls include interior red slip decoration, often as bands around the interior midbody. Their purpose remains somewhat mysterious. Some potters have suggested they carry cultural meaning, though their significance is not openly shared. At one time, scholars thought these bands were accidental, perhaps created during cleanup, but the absence of drips or other markings suggests they were intentional.

In this jar, the interior motif is not a band but a clearly pedaled flower form. Whether it began as a decorative gesture or a spontaneous act of expression is uncertain. What is clear is that this jar holds a quiet visual secret that adds to its mystery and charm, and makes it a standout piece among historic Acoma pottery.

Condition: excellent condition for a jar of this age

Provenance: This Rare Acoma Pueblo Polychrome Jar with Interior Orange Painted Flower Design c. 1900 is from the collection of a client of Adobe Gallery.

Recommended Reading: The Pottery of Acoma Pueblo by Dwight P. Lanmon and Francis H. Harlow, 2013. Museum of New Mexico Press, Santa Fe

TAGS: Southwest Indian Pottery, Acoma Pueblo, Historic Pottery