Laguna Pueblo Four-color Historic Pottery Jar, circa 1910 [SOLD]

It is quite often difficult to distinguish whether a pottery jar is from Acoma or Laguna Pueblo. Refugees from Acoma and other pueblos established Laguna Pueblo a few years after the Pueblo Revolt of 1680. As a result, its pottery is similar to that of Acoma Pueblo, and, for the most part, is indistinguishable from Acoma ceramics. Sometimes, designs can be a distinguishing factor.

The split orange and fine lines elements surrounding the neck of the jar are often seen on Laguna jars. The double black dots extending from the fine line triangles on the body design are almost always associated with pottery from Laguna. Lastly, the openness and simplicity of the design is more a characteristic of Laguna than Acoma wares.

The jar most likely dates to the turn of the twentieth century.  The deep red color in the triangles of the body design is generally not seen after 1900-1910.  The fine-line painting was beautifully executed.  The lines are parallel and of the same intensity.  Overall, the jar is beautiful and was expertly formed and designed.  There are fire clouds on the lower section of the jar indicating a traditional outdoor firing.

Condition:  UV examination reveals no repairs, restoration, or conservation.

Provenance:  this Laguna Pueblo Four-color Historic Pottery Jar, circa 1910 is from a personal collection

Recommended Reading: Acoma & Laguna Pottery by Rick Dillingham

Relative Links: Acoma Pueblo, Pueblo Pottery, Laguna Pueblo, Ka'waika