Acoma Pueblo Large Olla with Parrots and Geometric Designs [SOLD]

This extraordinary parrot design jar leads to an attribution to Mary Histia, who is recognized as certainly the finest Acoma potter of the early 20th century. Note the similarities of this jar to the one in the hands of the potter in the A. C. Vroman photograph, reproduced here, which he identified as "Acoma, Mary holding olla. 1900."

The chain-like mid-body design with the two dots in each link, the rectangular boxes above the chain elements, and the floral pods above the boxes all are visible in the photograph.

Although the design area is technically divided into four horizontal bands, it does not appear to be distinctive, rather the designs of the lower body, mid-body, shoulder and neck all flow as one masterful presentation.

Condition: This is an extraordinarily beautiful jar and it is in very good condition. Of course, any jar of this age has some minor abrasions and scratches, as does this one, but nothing significant enough to mar its beauty. There has been no rim repair but there has been some minor touch-up painting at the rim.

Provenance: from a New Mexico resident

Recommended Reading: Pottery of the Pueblos of New Mexico 1700-1940 by Jonathan Batkin