Zuni Pottery

People have been making pottery at the Zuni Pueblo since the early 1700s. Early Zuni pottery is known for a unique aesthetic style unlike that seen at any other pueblo - most likely due to the pueblo’s isolated location in western New Mexico. In terms of form, early Zuni potters made the usual jars and ollas for home use but they also made whimsical three-dimensional pottery owls, candlesticks, canteens, and other unexpected shapes. In terms of design, historic Zuni pottery is known for complex geometric patterns and signature motifs such as the water bird and the heartline deer. Historic Zuni pottery can be identified by the use of white/grey clay, bright white exterior slip, and dark red, brown, and black mineral painted designs.