Acoma pottery is distinguished by very thin walls, a difficult technical achievement without the use of the potter’s wheel. This jar represents an Acoma adaptation of Zuni designs, showing an artistic interchange between neighboring tribes.
Story
Acoma pottery is distinguished by very thin walls, a difficult technical achievement without the use of the potter’s wheel. The pots were made by molding the base and stacking rolled coils of clay. The shape of the ceramic water jar resembles examples dating between 1830 and 1890.
This piece is unusual because it represents an Acoma adaptation of Zuni designs showing an artistic interchange between neighboring tribes of different language groups in the Southwest. The floral motif and swirling rain bird are more typical of the Zuni, but the red base and other details help identify this as an Acoma pot from New Mexico.
Susan Milbrath
Curator, Latin American Art and Archaeology
Florida Museum of Natural History
Summary
Ceramic Water Jar
Made by Acoma people, New Mexico
Dates to ~19th century
Exhibit Area
Theme
Beautiful Artistry