Zia Pueblo Historic Pottery Bowl with Floral Design [SOLD]

This historic polychrome bowl from an unknown Zia Pueblo potter most likely dates to the 1940s or 1950s.  The absence of a red band separating the cream slip and red underbody confirms that it was made after 1930.  So, technically, the piece could be either a late historic or an early contemporary piece. It does show some evidence of use and has the general feel of an historic pot, so we choose to classify it as such.

The piece is typical of Zia bowls from this period.  It features one design band, which reaches from the red clay underbody up to the bowl’s rim.  The band’s primary design element—a flower, stretching out horizontally—is repeated three times.  Their balloon-shaped petals and split leaves rest comfortably within the cloud designs used for framing. The lines forming the cloud designs have a ceremonial line break. The bowl’s colors are typical of the pueblo and the era.  This serving bowl is charming, elegant, and well-crafted.

Condition: Very good condition, with wear from use but no distracting abrasions. There is a small chip in the rim.

Provenance: this Zia Pueblo Historic Pottery Bowl with Floral Design is  from the estate of a former client

Recommended Reading: The Pottery of Zia Pueblo by Harlow and Lanmon

Relative Links: Zia Pueblo, historic period