Historic Laguna Pueblo Pottery Jar ca. 1890s

This Laguna Pueblo jar dates to the 1890s. While some might identify it as an Acoma Pueblo pottery vessel, there are a number of visible characteristics that suggest Laguna as the pueblo of origin. The most significant is the dark brown base—this is a Zuni trait, which was passed down to Laguna potters after a number of Zuni artists migrated to Laguna. This darkened base does not appear on Acoma pots.

Additional distinctly Laguna elements on this jar are the continuous zigzagging lines, which circle the exterior in the upper and lower design band. Their rigid right angles—architectural in nature, we have written previously—are a Laguna trait; Acoma potters would usually use rounded and curved elements. The coloration also suggests Laguna, as the maroon tone used here rarely appears on Acoma pottery.

The potter, who we are unable to identify, did an excellent job with this jar. Its form is fairly typical for a small jar like this, with the exception of the neck and rim, which are extended slightly. There is a slight lean to one side, but it is not bothersome.

An incredibly intricate series of designs circles the jar in the two design bands, with a wide band sitting below the shoulder and a smaller band up above. Within these bands, wide lines full of diagonal hachure lines circle the exterior, moving up and down, and occasionally separating into two separate lines before joining back into one. In the blank spaces, a variety of elements in maroon appear. A thin framing line made of checkerboard design separates the two design bands. This is complex work, and it was undoubtedly challenging and time consuming, but it was executed with style and confidence.

Condition: excellent condition, wear from handling

Provenance: this Historic Laguna Pueblo Pottery Jar ca. 1890s is from a private collection

Recommended Reading: Acoma & Laguna Pottery by Rick Dillingham

TAGS: Southwest Indian Pottery, Acoma Pueblo, Historic Pottery, Laguna Pueblo, Ka'waika