Most Unusual Polacca Polychrome Vessel [SOLD]

Historic pottery from the Hopi Mesas that has been designated as Polacca Polychrome existed from about 1780 to 1900, and was the predominant type being made.  Nampeyo was making Polacca Polychrome wares before venturing into Sikyatki revival wares in the late 1800s.

The white kaolin slip used during the Polacca Polychrome phase tended to craze.  It did not seem to be compatible with the natural clay body from which the vessel was made. Early Polacca Polychrome pottery evidences influences from New Mexico Keresan Pueblos.  Later, influences from Zuni appeared in designs.  According to Dr. Ed Wade, the later period of these wares (1890-1900) showed much experimentation in shape and design, some of which were revivals of Prehistoric pottery shapes.

This vessel, with its four extended legs, must certainly be one from the exuberant experiment period.  It is not known if it was inspired by a prehistoric vessel or was the result of a potter’s fertile imagination. It is most interesting, regardless of its explanation.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: from the collection of a Colorado resident

Reference: Canvas of Clay—Seven Centuries of Hopi Ceramic Art by Wade and Cooke