Nineteenth Century Laguna Olla with Floral Designs [SOLD]

Several factors contributed to decline in pottery making at Laguna Pueblo in the late 1800s. A large number of families moved from Laguna to Isleta Pueblo. In this group were a significant number of potters. Secondly, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway (AT&SF) hired a number of workers to work on the railroad during that time. This provided sufficient money for those families to the point that it was no longer necessary for the women to make pottery for subsistence.

Fortunately there were some potters who continued to produce good quality pottery between 1880 and 1920 as illustrated by this outstanding small olla. It is beautifully formed with a rounded body and gracefully curved neck. Double framing lines separate the neck design from the main body design.

The design encircling the neck is a sinusoidal shape executed in deep brown paint. The main body of the vessel features a sensuous volute element with leaf projections, also executed in dark brown paint. The base of the jar is deep red in color and the underside is concave.

This is one of the most exquisite small jars imaginable. So little Laguna Pueblo pottery from the late 1800's is identifiable and so little is of the quality of this jar. It is a true pleasure to see such a magnificent piece.