Historic Polychrome Small Jar from Laguna Pueblo [SOLD]

This polychrome jar was made by a Laguna Pueblo artist. Its form recalls that of a functional olla, but of course, it is considerably smaller, which suggests that it was made for sale rather than use. We'd estimate that it dates to the early 1900s.

Two design bands appear, with a slim band circling the neck and a wider band reaching from the shoulder to the orange-painted base. Most of the design work is completed in the typical black and orange over cream slip, but there is an additional pigment that is most unusual—a green tone appears, applied in thick clouds over the orange design elements. Its depth and opacity vary, with some elements totally obscured by green and others just gently darkened. We've seen this before on historic pottery but its appearance is a rare occasion.

The jar is nicely patinated from many years of handling. The patina enhances the appeal of the color palette, which was already considerable due to the strong impact of the orange and green tones interacting.

Condition: good condition, some spalling, wear from handling in the form of light rim chips and abrasions

Provenance: this Historic Polychrome Small Jar from Laguna Pueblo is from the collection of a client of Adobe Gallery

Recommended Reading: Acoma & Laguna Pottery by Rick Dillingham

TAGS: Southwest Indian Pottery, Acoma Pueblo, Historic Pottery, Laguna Pueblo, Ka'waika