Historic Zuni Duck Figurine with Antelope Images

The Heartline and a Unique Fusion of Antelope and Duck in Traditional Zuni Pottery

This piece of pottery stands as a testament to the distinctiveness of Zuni craftsmanship, while simultaneously embodying a unique twist on traditional design elements. The Zuni people are renowned for their intricate incorporation of animal motifs into their pottery, particularly those featuring the symbolic "heartline" design. Traditionally, deer have been the primary subjects of these heartline depictions. However, this piece deviates from the norm by featuring antelope in the design, characterized by their elongated bodies and gracefully curved antlers.

Transitioning to another striking aspect of this piece, we find an unexpected fusion of form and design. Despite the antelope motifs on its body, the vessel itself takes the shape of a duck. It features a tail on one end and a detailed head and face on the other, complete with a beak and two protruding eyes, one of which exhibits a subtle indentation. Numerous half-circles under the face serve as a representation of the duck's feathers, adding to the overall realism of the piece.

The color palette of the piece is a study in understated elegance, with a beige slip serving as the backdrop for the brown designs. The base of the piece is marked by an orange hue, encircled by two brown lines that run around the circumference.

The absence of a signature on the bottom of the piece hints at its historical origins, suggesting that it was crafted during a time when artists did not sign their work. This unsigned bottom, therefore, adds an extra layer of historical significance to this already remarkable piece of Zuni pottery.

Over 9,000 Zuni (who call themselves the A:shiwi) live on their reservation in western New Mexico. Zuni Pueblo is the most remote pueblo in New Mexico. It is located somewhat near to Acoma and Laguna Pueblos, but quite a distance from the Rio Grande pueblos. In addition to its isolation on the western edge of the state, Zuni residents also speak a language different from all the other pueblos. The language is unique to the Zuni.

Condition: good condition except for a minor tip of beak repair

Provenance: this Historic Zuni Duck Figurine with Antelope Images is from the collection of a client of Adobe Gallery

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

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