San Ildefonso Historic Double Chamber Stirrup Canteen [SOLD]

This double chamber stirrup canteen was made by an unknown San Ildefonso Pueblo potter between 1800 and 1890. A friend of the gallery who has studied San Ildefonso pottery extensively described this form as representative of "the binaries of the Tewa world-up and down, black and white, male and female...The male/female is part of the world's balance and the continual seeking of balance. The canteen makes explicit balance, and by drinking from one spout the becoming of balance."

Two large spherical chambers sit side-by-side. They are linked together twice, by a passageway built into their interior edges down below and an arching tunnel up above. Three raised tabs, which may symbolize wings, appear on each side of the arch. A spout appears at the top, allowing the vessel to be filled and emptied.

The potter used black and red over a cream slip, which is typical of San Ildefonso historic wares but consistently striking, nonetheless. A variety of triangular forms appear, working together to create a strong feeling of movement. These designs reference corn and plants. Like many Pueblo symbols, they are prayers for abundance and moisture. Pieces like this were usually painted by men because, as our aforementioned source stated, "they are part of the Tewa male world and therefore their responsibility."

A thick fire cloud covers much of the exterior in black, obscuring the designs but also giving the piece an intensity that some will find appealing. This is a rare, beautiful example of San Ildefonso historic pottery.

Condition: The vessel was overfired but has no structural issues. Wear from use appears. The vessel has been examined under a blacklight and shows no signs of restoration or repair.

Provenance: This San Ildefonso Historic Double Chamber Stirrup Canteen is from a private Connecticut collection, inherited from a couple who were antique dealers

Relative Links:  Southwest Indian Pottery, Historic San Ildefonso Pueblo Pottery, San Ildefonso Pueblo