Santo Domingo Small Storage Jar with Blue Pigment

Historic Santo Domingo Pueblo Storage Jar (c. 1910)

This remarkable Santo Domingo Pueblo small storage jar, dating to approximately 1910, is a perfect blend of utilitarian function and striking visual form. Its size suggests it was a small storage jar, likely used for household purposes.

A unique feature of this vessel is the presence of soft, bluish areas near the shoulder-a rare occurrence in Pueblo pottery that may be due to the use of cobalt oxide. This element, possibly introduced through trade, adds a subtle yet intriguing layer of individuality.

The jar's graceful shape is defined by a high shoulder and a gently curved neck adorned with rain cloud motifs. The widest part of the body provides an expansive canvas for a bold, continuous band of black triangle designs. A single framing line thoughtfully separates the neck and body designs, highlighting the vessel's balanced composition. The jar is finished with a red slip base and a polished red slip interior. Light abrasions near the bottom serve as a testament to its authentic history of daily use.

Condition: very good condition, with some abrasions on the lower portion consistent with use.

Provenance: This Santo Domingo Small Storage Jar with Blue Pigment is from a client of Adobe Gallery.

Recommended Reading: THE POTTERY OF SANTO DOMINGO PUEBLO: A Detailed Study of its Decoration. Memoirs of the Laboratory of Anthropology, Volume 1, Santa Fe. 1936. Chapman, Kenneth M. (1875-1968)

TAGS: Southwest Indian Pottery, Kewa - Santo Domingo Pueblo, Contemporary Pottery, Ceremonial breaks