Zia Pueblo Polychrome Stew Bowl [SOLD]

This used stew bowl from Zia Pueblo probably dates to the first quarter 20th century. It appears to have been used prior to making its way onto the marketplace. The exterior underbody is slipped in red and stone polished to a high luster. The exterior upper body is slipped in white clay, stone polished to a high luster, and then decorated with traditional Zia geometric design elements.

The design is very dynamic—appearing to be in motion. The stepped elements to the left, with the black triangles with long probes pointing to the right, contrast with the fine-line triangles to the right, with its probe pointing to the left, capped by double feathers pointing to the right, all contribute to a feeling of wind-blown action. The graceful, concave walls gently curving inward to the rim establish elegance to the shape of such a small piece.

The overall patina of the bowl is evidence of its age. The condition is excellent, with the expected amount of wear pattern.