Zia Pueblo Small Olla with Trios Polychrome Design [SOLD]

Typology designations of pueblo pottery have been assigned by noted authorities based on observed changes over decades. At Zia Pueblo, one of the earlier designations is Puname Polychrome (1700-1760) which was followed by the designation San Pablo Polychrome (1760-1820), then Trios Polychrome (1820-1860) and, finally, today's designation of Zia Polychrome (1860-present).

Although designations have been assigned to periods of production as shown above, it must be remembered that potters actively working at the time did not necessarily make changes simultaneously. A potter making pottery in 1855, during what has been designated as the Trios Polychrome period, might have continued her style until her death maybe in 1895. Technically, according to the authorities, she was in the Zia Polychrome period, although she, herself, was still making what she had learned to make in the Trios Polychrome designated period. The designation was not observed by potters, only by authorities studying pottery.

Several factors distinguish Zia Polychrome period pottery from that of the Trios Polychrome period. First, the volute motif is much neater and more elaborate in the Zia Polychrome wares. Second, the underbody is straighter with an angular in-curve at the base. Third, the shoulder—the area of greatest diameter—is above the mid-way point, and finally the underbody area below the red band is better polished than pottery of the Trios Polychrome period. Overall, Zia Polychrome jars are more pleasing and precise in their execution than those of the earlier period.

This jar combines the best qualities of Zia Polychrome with the finest design of the Trios Polychrome.  It has two rectangular bands executed in red slip.  The vessel shape and black rim would indicate the later date, so we have chosen to say it is a Zia Polychrome jar with a Trios Polychrome design and would date to 1890-1910.

The designs associated with the Trios period are some of the most elegant and beautiful designs applied to pottery during the later Zia period. We are fortunate that some potters who were experienced with the Trios design continued producing it into the later period. The design is a very rich dark brown on cream slip, and repeated only twice around the vessel body.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: from a private collection

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