Santo Domingo Pueblo Black-on-Cream Kewa Pottery Jar with Flared Rim [SOLD]

This historic pottery jar was created by an unknown Santo Domingo Pueblo potter in the 1920s.  It uses traditional black-on-cream colors seen at Santo Domingo Pueblo, with the typical red base and interior.  Three design bands circle the vessel.  The lowest and largest band features circles or cream slip, which are formed by bold black frames.  Above this, curving black designs with pointed edges frame cream semicircles.  Above this, two pairs of black framing lines circle the neck.  Within these lines, two black lines zigzag across each other, forming diamonds.  The traditional ceremonial line break is present in each of these design bands.

The vessel itself has a form that is incredibly appealing.  Its curves are just a bit more dramatic than those of the average Santo Domingo jar, and the change works well.  The base measures about four inches, and the rim nearly nine.  The jar’s lower section curves upward slowly and consistently, providing ample space for the cream-colored circular pattern.  Then, the shoulder makes a sharp turn inward, before reversing just as quickly to form the flared rim.  A trio of fire clouds—one large and two small—decorate one side of the vessel.  A bit of wear and some external materials accumulated on the underside suggest use by its maker.  This jar has lots of personality, and all the elegance that we expect of a Santo Domingo piece.

Condition: exceptionally good condition, with some wear and abrasion on the lower section of the jar. No restoration or repair.

Provenance: this Santo Domingo Pueblo Black-on-Cream Kewa Pottery Jar with Flared Rim is from the collection of a family from California

Recommended Reading: The Pottery of Santo Domingo Pueblo, a Detailed Study of Its Decoration by Kenneth Milton Chapman - 1977

Relative Links: Southwest Indian Pottery, Historic Pottery, Kewa Pueblo - Santo Domingo Pueblo