Cochiti Pueblo Small Storage Jar Vessel [SOLD]

This small Southwest Indian Pottery jar from Cochiti Pueblo was made in the shape of a storage jar, not in the shape of a water jar so we have selected small storage jar as its description.  The shape is globular with a short neck that rolls outward slightly.  The main body of the vessel is covered in cream slip over which was painted a design in black.  The design is typical of Cochiti designs, each of which floats independently.  The larger design is a mixture of leaves, triangles, and clouds.  The small design is a multi-directional element of arrows.  Around the neck of the vessel is a continuous design chain of triangles, half circles and half-moon elements accented with X markings.  A Cochiti potter once told me that the X marks were called turkey tracks and signified ceremonial use.  There is no obvious indication that this jar has been used.

The interior of the rim has a red band painted down about a half inch.  The top of the rim is black with a ceremonial line break that penetrates the rim and the neck design.  The double framing lines at the base of the design also have ceremonial breaks but do not line up with the rim ceremonial break lines. There are a few light fire clouds on the surface.

Condition: very good condition

Recommended Reading: A River Apart: The Pottery of Cochiti and Santo Domingo Pueblos by Valerie Verzuh, et al.

Provenance: from the collection of a gentleman from Colorado