Zia Pueblo High-shoulder Storage Jar [R]

This is an excellent polychrome storage jar that dates to the first decade of the twentieth century (circa 1910-1920), as evidenced by the overall form: the high shoulder, typical of pieces created post 1900, the stone polished underbody of the vessel, as well as the traditional red banding at the top of the underbody, which fell into disuse circa 1930.

The piece is constructed of typical Zia basaltic black lava as paste-temper with the traditional polished red neck interior and a black rim top, though ceremonial breaks in the framing lines are absent. The design elements are faithful to the traditionally conservative Zia design system, which itself is relatively unchanged by the influence of Western ideas.

The design system employed in this jar is commonly associated with the use of the Zia bird, which some have suggested is a roadrunner, but which Zia potters refer to only as the Zia bird. The three birds framing the jar are each placed under a protective rainbow. Lacking in the design here is the usual floral elements associated with designs using Zia birds. This allowed the potter additional space for larger birds and a significant design panel between the birds.

These Zia birds have black heads and long legs associated with designs after the late 1800s. The birds have dual split tail feathers and single wings.  Thin lines on the head represent feathers.  Between the bird designs the potter placed an elaborate black-on-white panel in which the main element has a very distinctive look of a butterfly over which is a sinusoidal band.

This is truly a very masterful jar, with a depth and nuance to the design, a sense of space and simplicity suggestive of the golden age of Zia pottery. It displays a fine patina acquired through use, with a magnificent glossy sheen.

Condition:  Examination under UV light reveals no repair, restoration or over-paint. The jar is in excellent condition, with the normal amount of scratches and abrasions expected of a jar that is over 100 years old and used for utilitarian purposes before being sold.

Recommended Reading: The Pottery of Zia Pueblo by Harlow and Lanmon

Provenance:  from the extensive collection of a Santa Fe resident who has unfortunately moved to another city and found it necessary to greatly reduce her collection.