Miniature Cochiti Pueblo Canteen [SOLD]

CLEARANCE SALE PRICE: $87.50 (from $175.00).

Early 20^th century pottery vessels of any shape are relatively rare from Cochiti Pueblo. Potters were almost exclusively making figurine pottery—male and female standing figures, effigy vessels, and large animal figures. There were times when small amounts of clay were left over from making a large piece, and this was turned into small pottery pieces, primarily for sale to tourists visiting the pueblo.

That is probably the case with this charming small water canteen. Its size was determined by the amount of clay ready for use. That does not diminish the value or authenticity of the piece, only explains why small ones like this probably exist.

This little canteen is traditional in every aspect of construction and design. It is in mimicry of the larger canteens the men take to the fields with them. A very simple floral element inhabits the top of the canteen, and small dashes decorate the handles. The neck has a framing line that continues in a bib-like element draping down on the backside of the spout.

The canteen is in excellent condition and probably dates to the early 1900s.