Extraordinary Zuni Pueblo Polychrome Olla [SOLD]

This is a refreshing look at a traditional Zuni jar of the 1890s period. It exhibits all of the traits of a jar of this period. It has a brown rim around the opening and a distinctive puki impression on the underbody, which is brown.

Zuni Polychrome designation starts with the period from about 1850 to the present. The last fine vessels were made by the early 1900s. During this time span, there are several things that differ from earlier vessels. One is that there was a tendency to place the greatest width of jars above mid-height. A second is the change in the underbody paint from red to dark brown. Third, the use of red in the design was held to a minimum.

This jar has a presence all its own. The globular shape, high shoulder and narrow neck provided the potter with the largest area in which to place her designs. Notice the small triangular areas of red design interspersed throughout the vessel design and how minimal their existence.

Generally, Zuni vessels exhibit a rather coarse and grainy texture. This jar has a surface as smooth as seen at Acoma and Laguna Pueblos. The potter obviously worked the clay to its maximum fineness before starting vessel construction, and sanded and smoothed the vessel wall upon completion of construction. This jar was made by a truly expert artisan who not only was above average in technique but also was well above average in pride of workmanship.

The artisan, who painted the jar, whether it was the potter or a male acquaintance, was also a master craftsman. There is perfection in painting throughout the entire vessel. The black fine lines are as parallel as one could achieve, and the dark red paint is as consistent in thickness as could be achieved. The design, too, is refreshing and a pleasant change from the standard "heartline deer" design so prevalent in the late 1800s and continuing to today.

Notice the similarity of the design on this jar to the one in the Gallegos Collection (see reference book below).

I cannot recall ever having a finer quality Zuni vessel in the gallery.