Acoma Pueblo Black-on-white Low and Wide Historic Pottery Jar [SOLD]

This historic pottery jar from Acoma Pueblo dates to the 1940 period and is unusual in that it is relatively short and wide.  Other than the dimensions, it is very traditional to the period and to the pueblo. The designs are strongly rain related. The rain elements are quite obvious on the neck of the jar and a little more subdued on the body.  The cathedral arches on the body design are probably unique to a specific potter of the period. Rick Dillingham stated “Often potters develop a unique style based on their personal interpretation of traditional Acoma and Laguna designs, a style that reveals their particular aesthetic sensibilities.  Certain types of designs or design elements—as well as individual technical abilities—serve as a personal signature or trademark. Potters can usually recognize work done by family members and other potters by the form and design of the vessel.” [Dillingham 1992:108]

The uniqueness of black-on-white designs is apparent when one first looks at the white elements as the design intended by the potter, then reverses one's view to look at the black elements as the intended design.  Generally, the white is accepted as the intended design and the black serves to outline the white design. Regardless of how one interprets the design, black-on-white design jars are striking geometric statements.

Condition: this Acoma Pueblo Black-on-white Low and Wide Historic Pottery Jar is in very good condition

Provenance: from the estate of Tom Dickerson, former potter and lifetime resident of Santa Fe, and avid collector of Native arts.

Recommended Reading: Acoma & Laguna Pottery by Rick Dillingham

Relative Links: Southwest Indian Pottery, Acoma Pueblo, Historic Pottery