Pair of Historic Candlesticks with Frog Handles from Zuni Pueblo [SOLD]

Candlesticks are not a traditional art form at any of the pueblos. It is likely they appeared in the early 20th century as an object meant to appeal to tourists or collectors of pueblo pottery. Candlesticks probably had their introduction at the pueblos after the arrival of the Spaniards. Surely the candlesticks used in the churches were the first exposure the pueblos had to such formal containers for candles. It was perhaps several hundred years before someone thought to mimic the church candle holders as an item that would appeal to collectors and tourists.

This pair appears to date to the first quarter of the twentieth century. The paste materials are typically Zuni; white and chunky in texture with the centuries old temper material of ground pottery shards. The use of old shards for temper evidences the regard of the pueblo peoples for the old works made by their predecessors. To add these remnants to the new work is a sign of respect.

The candlesticks are slipped in cream-colored clay over which a precise array of geometric designs are painted in brown mineral paint and highlighted with red pigment. The designs on the three columns are extraordinary and beautifully executed. The pedestal is painted with four speckled leaf patterns. The base and the rim are painted brown.

The highlight of the candlesticks is the wonderful frog attached to one side while serving as a handle. His mouth has been scored with a line that resembles a smile.

None of the books on pueblo pottery provide detailed information on the history of candlestick use or production by pueblo potters. It would be interesting to know which pueblo was the first to make them and what prompted the potters to do so.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Pair of Historic Candlesticks with Frog Handles from Zuni Pueblo is from the collection of a client of Adobe Gallery

Recommended Reading: Collections of Southwestern Pottery: Candlesticks to Canteens, Frogs to Figurines by Allan Hayes, Northland Press, Flagstaff

TAGS: puki depression, Pueblo Pottery, Zuni Pueblo, old pottery