Canteens

Pueblo and Diné (Navajo) Canteens

Pueblo Pottery Canteens were made different sizes depending on its intended use. Traditionally, small but functional canteens were made at the pueblos for the men to fill with water and take to the fields with them. Of course, collectors sought after them as well, so the women potters began making them to sell. Usually they were made even smaller than the functional ones. Presented in this exhibit are nice examples of older, more traditional canteens and newer, smaller collector-size canteens —some even miniturized. We even feature a Diné (Navajo) Silver Canteen used for tobacco.