Historic Acoma Pueblo Polychrome Jar circa 1940s

This Acoma Pueblo polychrome olla, or water jar, dating to the 1940s, showcases the innovative spirit of Acoma potters during the early 20th century. Measuring 8 inches in height and 9-¾ inches in diameter, the jar features a well-balanced form with a wider profile than many traditional Acoma ollas.

One of its most distinctive elements is the use of an orangish slip, a characteristic that became more prevalent in Acoma pottery from the late 19th to early 20th century. Traditionally, Acoma pottery was known for its white or cream slip, but as artisans experimented with different clay sources and firing techniques, they introduced warmer hues, such as buff and orange, into their work. This transition aligned with a broader shift toward polychrome styles, spurred in part by the growing interest of museum representatives and collectors who sought more elaborate and unique designs.

The jar is adorned with three decorative bands, with the bottom and top bands mirroring each other, framing the central design. The intricate designs reflect the evolving creativity of Acoma artists, who began diverging from traditional patterns in favor of more dynamic compositions. The warm orange base further enhances the vessel's visual appeal, making it a standout example of mid-20th-century Acoma pottery.

This piece embodies the fusion of tradition and innovation, capturing a pivotal moment in Acoma pottery history when artisans redefined their artistic expressions while maintaining the technical excellence for which their work is renowned.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: This Historic Acoma Pueblo Polychrome Jar circa 1940s is from a private collection

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