Historic White-on-red Tesuque Pueblo Olla [SOLD]

This is a very traditional Tesuque jar in every respect except in decoration. The vessel shape is unmistakably Tewa, the clay, temper, and construction are identifiable as Tesuque, and the bumpiness in the polished unslipped tan-colored underbody is uniquely Tesuque.

The white design elements applied on a highly-polished red slip and the white band dividing the red slip from the tan underbody are unusual. Perhaps this is the work of an innovative early 20th Century potter.

The framing lines dividing the design area into two sections do not contain a ceremonial break, a tradition followed by Tesuque potters since the mid-1700s. The triangular shapes pendant from the neck appear to be rain clouds and the floral and leaf-like designs are the recipients of the rain.

The jar has had some professional restoration.

Provenance: This vessel was part of the exhibit Tesuque: Place of the Red Willow August 5, 2002 until August 31, 2002 presented at adobe gallery santa fe.