Hopi Pueblo Historic Polychrome Seed Jar [SOLD]

This polychrome seed jar was made by a Hopi Pueblo potter whose identity remains unknown because it is unsigned, and we are unable to offer an attribution. What we can say with certainty is that this is an outstanding example of early 1900s Hopi pottery.

Its form is unique and beautiful. The wide lower section is not unlike that of the typical seed jar, but the shoulder makes a sharper-than-usual curve inward before making a gentle curve up to a raised rim. It is beautifully balanced, and it looks great from any direction. A notable but invisible attribute is the width of the walls—the potter chose to create thick walls, resulting in a piece that feels quite substantial when handled.

The jar's coloration and design are remarkable. A single, wide design band circles the vessel, reaching from about two inches below the rim to just below the vessel's widest point. The designs within it flow beautifully around the vessel, with individual elements suggesting rain and fertility. In a less specific sense, the designs suggest life and energy, and they do so beautifully.

The design work is completed in black and maroon over an orange slip. The slip tone shifts from orange to gold and everything in between. Smoky fire clouds appear, mostly on the bottom, adding an additional dimension to the gorgeous palette. The jar is gently patinated in the most appealing manner, enhancing its beauty immeasurably.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Hopi Pueblo Historic Polychrome Seed Jar is from a private collection

Recommended Reading: America's Great Lost Expedition, The Thomas Keam Collection of Hopi Pottery from the Second Hemenway Expedition, 1890-1894 by Edwin Wade, et al.

TAGS: Southwest Indian Pottery, Hopi Pueblo, Hopituh Shi-nu-mu