Cochiti Pueblo 19th-century Olla [SOLD]

Late 19^th-century ollas were more rounded or globular than those that followed in the early 20^th century.  Such a rounded shape is so attractive that one wonders why the potters abandoned it in favor of more vertical-shape jars.  This pre-1900 olla immediately captures the eyes of the viewer.  The rounded body of the jar forces the bold design to leap forward as if three-dimensional.  The very strong black guaco paint adds to the intensity of the design. The bulbous body and graceful neck feature two design patterns.  The body is decorated with cloud elements in an X pattern and the neck has black triangles connected at their bases. 

From the rounded body, the short neck rolls out in a concave curve that clearly reveals the thin wall construction, evidence of an excellent potter.  The interior of the neck is painted in red slip that was stone polished.  Below the body design panel is a wide red band indicative of the size seen on late 19^th-century Cochiti Pueblo jars.  The underbody is concave and the base features stone polished natural clay without addition of slip.  The rim is black and a ceremonial break occurs through the complete design.  The jar is bold in appearance and has a marvelous patina. 

Condition: For a jar over 100 years of age, it is in good condition.  There has been rim restoration in one section and what appears to be over-paint at one section of the body.

Provenance: from the collection of a gentleman from Santa Fe

Recommended Reading: A River Apart: The Pottery of Cochiti & Santo Domingo Pueblos by Valerie Verzuh, et al.