Zuni Pueblo Historic Polychrome Jar, c.1890s

This jar is unusual and intriguing in size and design. It is low and wide, approximately 8" height x 12" width. The extraordinary design is not like most Zuni jars which feature heartline deer and medallions. Instead, this one departs from that design style and features uncluttered panels of minimum design elements. The body of the jar is divided into four quadrants. In each quadrant, we see pairs of long brown extensions at the midpoint, and spiral elements in the upper and lower areas. The neck design is similar.

What makes this Zuni Pueblo pottery jar especially remarkable is the choice by the potter to be creative and different from others in her choice of design, yet it displays a clear sense of history. The surface has developed an even patina from years of everyday use, showing it was once a functional part of daily life in the pueblo. The wear it shows is not damage, but a sign of its age and authenticity. It is in very good condition, with minor surface abrasions - evidence of its long and continued use.

The lower section of a jar is typically finished in black pigment, although this one is a shade of brown pigment. Additionally, this part of the jar is a little rough, an indication that it was not finished to a fine smooth surface that is typically done when preparing a jar for the market.

In the 1880s, Zuni Pueblo remained an active and creative community despite outside pressures from the U.S. government and missionaries. Pottery continued to be both a practical tool and a form of cultural expression. Zuni potters stayed true to traditional methods using local materials and time-tested techniques. Jars like this one were often used to carry or store water and were a regular part of household life.

Condition: very good condition with expected wear patterns

Provenance: this Zuni Pueblo Historic Polychrome Jar, c.1890s is from a client of Adobe Gallery

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

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