Historic Santo Domingo Black-on-cream Large Jar [SOLD]

This is an exceptional Kewa Pueblo Black-on-cream olla that follows the pueblo's traditions in every aspect of materials, construction, and design. The main body is decorated in black vegetal paint over the cream-colored rag-wiped bentonite slip. The design consists of the time-honored arrangements of black triangles repeated throughout the body of the vessel. The beautifully curved neck is simply designed with black forms with curved sides and a peak intersecting the single black framing line below the neck. The lower third of the vessel has black double circular lines draped in a graceful manner.

A single framing line at the rim and double framing lines separating the main body design from the upper and lower designs are penetrated by traditional ceremonial line breaks that go through the entire design elements. There is no lower framing line separating the cream slip and the red underbody. The rim is a dark black on the top and slightly below the exterior. The interior of the neck is covered in polished red slip.

The jar probably dates to the early 1900s and is an excellent example of a traditional water jar from the pueblo with the exception that it is larger than most water jars. The cream bentonite slip over the entire vessel has assumed a beautiful warm patina and the black pigment is still strong and vivid.

The jar is impressive in its size and in the design. It has a substantial presence. The potter was experienced in the techniques of construction, design, and firing. She produced an exceptional work of art for those of us fortunate enough to experience it.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Historic Santo Domingo Black-on-cream Large Jar is from a client of Adobe Gallery

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

TAGS: Southwest Indian Pottery, Historic Pottery, Cochiti Pueblo, Kewa Pueblo - Santo Domingo Pueblo