Zuni Pueblo Historic Owl with Two Baby Owls [SOLD]

Since the mid-1800s, Zuni Pueblo potters have been making effigy vessels and figurines. Owl figurines have always been a favorite. In 1879, Alexander Stevenson collected, for the Smithsonian, figurines, including an owl.  The earliest figurines were made in such a manner that the owl stood on its feet. Later, potters eliminated the feet and had the owls sitting on their legs. This owl sits on its legs but still probably dates to no later than the very late 1800s. It is an especially nice one that was beautifully modeled. The painting of the features and feathers is excellent. The eyes are not just painted on but were sculpted prior to painting.

It is the primitive nature of the figurine that guides us to dating it prior to 1900.  It is somewhat clunky in structure and application of paint, yet it is absolutely charming with its long rabbit-like ears and two baby owls perched on its chest. 

Condition: very good condition with some crazing of the slip

Provenance: from a pottery collector from Los Angeles, CA

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