Historic Polychrome Zuni Pueblo Pottery Jar with Evidence of Use

A Testament to Time: The Polychrome Zuni Pueblo Jar

Immersed in the rich history of Zuni Pueblo, this jar is geometrically strong, its origins likely between the years 1920 and 1930. It bears the marks of time and use, with slip abrasions encircling the rim and vertical cracks etched into its surface. These cracks, though noticeable, have been meticulously stabilized by a professional restoration artist.

Yet, in our appreciation for authenticity and the charm of well-loved objects, we opted to let these signs of wear remain visible. They serve as a testament to the jar's journey, adding depth to its narrative and enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

The vessel shape is characterized by softly rounded curves and a generous rim. While some might argue that its form is somewhat less distinctively Zuni than typical examples from this period, it's undeniable that the vessel's shape could have been influenced from a variety of pueblos.

However, the jar's designs and the unique properties of the clay are unmistakably Zuni, setting it apart from its contemporaries. These elements, combined with its visible history, make this Zuni Pueblo jar a truly remarkable piece of cultural heritage.

The designs seen here appear in nearly identical forms on both a recently listed piece [Historic Zuni Pueblo Polychrome OLLA with X-Shaped Design] and a jar pictured in Lanmon and Harlow's The Pottery of Zuni Pueblo (p. 438). According to Lanmon and Harlow, these designs do not appear on any of the many pieces that were documented between 1870 and 1912. These designs likely appeared shortly thereafter at the very earliest, and almost always are seen on jars that are skillfully crafted and painted. Judging by the look and feel of this piece, we would say that it's most likely one of the earlier examples of pottery made with this particular design. The exact details will remain unknown, as is often the case with historic pieces like this one, but we are delighted to come across two examples of this striking design in a short period of time.

Condition: wear from use, mostly around the rim. Two vertical cracks, which have been stabilized but not concealed.

Provenance: this Historic Polychrome Zuni Pueblo Pottery Jar with Evidence of Use is private New Mexico collection

Recommended Reading: The Pottery of Zuni Pueblo by Lanmon and Harlow

TAGS: puki depression, Pueblo Pottery, Zuni Pueblo, old pottery