Historic Zia Pueblo Four-Color Polychrome OLLA with Birds [SOLD]

This beautiful olla was created over a century ago by an unknown Zia Pueblo potter. With its elegant form and tastefully executed traditional design pattern, this is an exemplary piece of historic Zia pottery. We would date the piece to around c.1900, and we can say with certainty that it was used heavily at the pueblo.

The jar's form is typical of Zia jars from this period, with a strong shoulder and an upturned rim. It does not lean or tilt in any one direction; it's an exceptionally well-balanced olla that looks excellent from any angle. Subtle variations do appear, of course, in the midsection and rim, reminding the viewer that the piece was made without the aid of modern tools.

Four colors appear here, forming a strong design pattern. A rainbow winds around the jar's exterior, reaching its peak and base three times. Each time it dips down to its base, a bird and flower appear, standing on the rainbow over the cream-colored slip. Subtle variations appear here too, most notably with the one bird who has chosen to hop up from his rainbow perch.

The jar's coloration feels wonderfully muted and smokey, with depth and strength remaining intact. It's the rich patina—developed, undoubtedly, over many years of use and handling—that softens and tempers the tones. The wear pattern on this piece is ideal; it is deep and consistent enough to highlight the jar's inherent character, but it does not include chips or cracks. Calcium streaks and light abrasions appear near the bottom but do not distract from the jar's beauty. With its strong form and gorgeous design, this vessel was excellent when it originally emerged from firing. The visible and tangible history of use that it acquired over the years elevates its appeal immeasurably.

Condition: very good condition, with no chips or cracks. Some overpaint appears, centered around a spalled spot near the base which was filled in

Provenance: this Zia olla is from a private collection

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

Relative Links: Southwest Indian Pottery, Zia Pueblo, Historic Pottery