Historic Acoma Pueblo Pottery Cube [SOLD]

Centuries before the arrival of the Spaniards in New Mexico, the Pueblo Indians were practicing elaborate religious and ceremonial traditions. The abundant paraphernalia, principally pottery, found in archaeological sites, as well as in the history and legends recorded by the Spaniards after 1540, is proof of this.

Square boxes such as this were used in ceremonial practices. It is not our intent to discuss the way they were used, as we are not informed of such. It is known that boxes were used in kiva ceremonies and privately in household functions.

Documented pieces of historic times do not appear to have had lids. The addition of lids was apparently a 19th or 20th century idea. 

This cube shows extensive wear through a darkening patina.  There is no damage, however, only abrasions of some of the painted surface.  The black on white design, void of red, would cause one to think this was a late 19^th century piece.

Condition: very good condition, with abrasions to painted design and an excellent patina to interior and exterior surfaces.

Provenance: this Historic Acoma Pueblo Pottery Cube is from a private collection

Recommended Reading: Acoma & Laguna Pottery by Rick Dillingham