Zia Pueblo Historic Storage Jar with Avian Designs, circa 1920s

This fantastic historic Zia Pueblo pottery storage jar will appeal to collectors who appreciate subtle but creative designs. The painted designs consist of black-capped feathers in groups of three—a motif which has been used frequently since the 1700s—and four traditional Zia birds, which are equally spaced around the mid-body. Note the two different styles of birds—one pair is skinnier with long legs, the second pair is larger with shorter legs. The skinny, long-legged birds are out in the open, the wider birds are enclosed within circles. These circles are surrounded by wider red bands, from which additional groups of feather designs emerge. Feather designs emerge from the lower framing line, curving gently alongside the bottom half of the circular designs. The jar's greatest strength is the effortless, rhythmic way its designs flow around and into one another.

A black rim, double framing lines below the decorated area, and a red underbody complete the essential elements of this jar's design. Its shape—like that of a Zia water jar but expanded—is exceptional. It's very balanced and even, which cannot always be said of pieces this large. The jar dates to the 1920s and shows evidence on its exterior of use at the pueblo. Strong fire clouds are present on its red underbody, and a few small fire clouds are visible on the main design band. Everything about this jar feels smooth, natural, and effortless, which is most impressive when one considers how difficult it is to produce a piece like this. This is a classic example of a Zia Pueblo storage jar. We encourage our readers to take a moment to appreciate its subtle, graceful beauty.

Condition: very good condition with an exterior that shows wear from use

Provenance: this Zia Pueblo Historic Storage Jar with Avian Designs, circa 1920s is from a private New Mexico collection

Reference: Harlow, Francis H. and Dwight P. Lanmon. The Pottery of Zia Pueblo

TAGS: Southwest Indian Pottery, Zia Pueblo, Historic Pottery