Exquisite Large-Scale Acoma OLLA with Zuni-Inspired Designs, Circa 1900

Masterful Craftsmanship: The Acoma Pueblo OLLA and its Cultural Significance

This polychrome OLLA, a traditional pottery water jar, is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of an unidentified Acoma Pueblo potter. At an impressive height of over twelve inches and spanning nearly fourteen inches in diameter, this piece is both large and commanding. Although it exceeds the size of a typical functional OLLA by a mere two inches, this subtle increase significantly amplifies its visual impact. The OLLA's imposing presence is attributed to its substantial size and the exceptional designs it showcases.

The exterior of the OLLA is encircled by a wavy band that gracefully curves twice, extending from just below the midpoint to just above the shoulder. Within this band, a continuous pattern of feather designs unfolds, repeating unbroken as it encircles the OLLA. At the two points where the band dips, triangular forms protrude from the rim. From the lowest vertices of these triangles, Zuni-influenced volutes unfurl, expanding into the space between the band and the black triangles. Capped feather designs, filled with vibrant orange, also make their appearance here. Hachured triangular forms are interspersed within many of the larger elements, interconnecting the various designs and enhancing the sense of movement.

Published references, such as the Harlow and Lanmon book, mention an Acoma jar (page 263) adorned with capped spirals filled with fine lines, collected by Dr. H. J. Spinden in 1912, and another piece he had collected in 1909. Given these references, it is plausible to date this Acoma Pueblo jar to around 1900.

Instead of incorporating additional designs, the potter utilized the enlarged surface by magnifying a pattern that would have been equally effective on an average-sized piece. Consequently, the elements are more prominent, characterized by precise composition and a generally crisp appearance. The boldness of the orange and black pigments used in the designs further enhances this effect. This OLLA is a striking exemple of Acoma Pueblo pottery, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and artistic talent of its maker.

Condition: excellent condition with no restoration or repair

Provenance: this Exquisite Large-Scale Acoma OLLA with Zuni-Inspired Designs, Circa 1900 is from a private Colorado collection

Reference and Recommended Reading: The Pottery of Acoma Pueblo by Dwight P. Lanmon and Francis H. Harlow, 2013. Museum of New Mexico Press, Santa Fe

TAGS: Southwest Indian Pottery, Acoma Pueblo, Historic Pottery, Zuni Pueblo, SHE-WE-NA