Posted 8 years ago
bowlfan
(1 item)
This pot is 10"H x 8.5"W. Round bottom. I've been unable to find a similar bird design--is it a quail? a parrot? I can see rope or snake construction on the inside with evidence of fingers moulding the clay; slight white pits in the dark dark red in places; and, there is at least one blackened spot maybe from wood firing? I've had it for over forty years and it is one of my favorites. Can anyone help identify this pot?
It's Mexican, from the village of Mata Ortiz, known world-wide today for its art pottery. Designs are often based on Indian pottery, although the potters are not. This particular bird design is based on images from prehistoric Mimbres pottery.
Thin walls, with a short slightly flared neck, a rounded bottom, and the design pattern layout are all characteristics of Mata Ortiz pottery. (Native American potters do not make rounded bottoms on their pots.)
Very beautiful pot, bowlfan!