Multi-colored Tesuque Rain God [SOLD]

Tesuque Rain Gods are well understood by our clients so I will not delve into their history too much.  It is only necessary to point out that this one is probably from the late 1800s, maybe 1890, and is unusual in its decoration.

The doll has a Plains Indian bone breastplate that alternates between orange and blue colors.  The face has Plains Indian style war paint, also in orange and blue.  Barely visible is a blue Whirling Log symbol on the doll’s forehead.  I’m guessing that those are feathers in his hair.  He holds a traditional jar in his lap. It has been stated that the blue is probably from ink, not paint.

Condition: the only damage is loss of his thumb on his right hand.

Provenance: from a family in Albuquerque

Recommended Reading: When Rain Gods Reigned: From Curios to Art at Tesuque Pueblo by Duane Anderson