Zia Pueblo Polychrome Square Pictorial Tile

The Timeless Artistry of a Zia Pueblo Tile

This exquisite tile, believed to have been made no later than 1940, is the work of an anonymous potter from Zia Pueblo. The tile's edges extend from the highly polished red slip on the back, creating a seamless transition. A thin black line delicately frames the interior, adding depth and contrast just inside the edges.

The centerpiece of the tile is a Zia bird, elegantly depicted in a poised stance, drawing the viewer's attention. Encircling the bird on all four sides of the tile are interconnected brown clouds, creating a sense of continuity and balance. Adding a touch of vibrancy, a red feather protrudes from each corner.

On the back of this tile is what might be a person's name and SAN YSIDRO NM 87053.  This town is located near and between Zia Pueblo and Jemez Pueblo.

In the aftermath of World War II, during the boom of the tourist market, potters across New Mexico's pueblos began crafting smaller items for sale. Despite the tourist market becoming a significant source of income for many potters, the traditional uses of pottery within the pueblos remained intact. The Zia people, honoring their heritage, have continued to create pottery for daily household use and tribal functions.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Zia Pueblo Polychrome Square Pictorial Tile is from the estate of a former gallery client

Recommended Reading: The Pottery of Zia Pueblo by Francis H. Harlow & Dwight P. Lanmon, SAR Press, Santa Fe, 2003.

TAGS: Southwest Indian Pottery, Zia Pueblo, Historic Pottery