Early Style Rain God Figurine, circa 1900 [SOLD]

Figurative pottery at Tesuque Pueblo existed before the 1880s, but the Tesuque Rain God was probably developed around 1880. Most likely, such Santa Fe traders encouraged it as Jake Gold who had a curio shop. It provided an alternative for tourist sales over the traditional pottery available at that time. It also had the mysticism of a "pagan god."

This figurine is an excellent example of an early one. It has tan clay slip applied over the base clay, and monochromatic brown mineral paint designs of the simplest form. It is in excellent condition. It's amazing it has survived in such remarkable condition for such a long period. It most probably dates to circa 1900.