Owl Figure Item Number: 2731/85 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Squat, gourd-shaped, pale orange clay owl has mesh feather pattern, striped wings and tail, and heavily dotted head area all hand painted in thick strokes of dark brown over a cream background. The flattened rounded ears, large loop beak that starts at back of the head, and eyes with thick iris are somewhat sloppily applied in brown and orange.
Narrative
Pottery owls became important tourist items when the railroad and then Route 66 allowed for large numbers of tourists to travel to the Southwest. This collection of 192 Zuni pottery owls includes examples from before 1900 through 2006. Zuni potters continue to make owls and family traditions in the medium continue. While many younger potters are innovating, the owls are distinctly Zuni.
Iconographic Meaning
In traditional Zuni lore, the owl is considered a wise guardian and protector. An owl’s ability to see at night means that it sees what others cannot, giving it understanding of the spiritual and physical world.
Item History
- Made in New Mexico, USA during 1930
- Collected in Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA during November 2001
- Owned by Daniel Ma before February 24, 2009
- Owned by David Evans between November 6, 2001 and February 24, 2009
- Received from David Evans (Donor) and Daniel Ma (Donor) on February 24, 2009
What
Who
- Culture
- Zuni
- Previous Owner
- Daniel Ma and David Evans
- Received from
- David Evans (Donor) and Daniel Ma (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- New Mexico, USA
- Collected in
- Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA
When
- Creation Date
- during 1930
- Collection Date
- during November 2001
- Ownership Date
- before February 24, 2009 and between November 6, 2001 and February 24, 2009
- Acquisition Date
- on February 24, 2009
Other
- Item Classes
- ceramics
- Condition
- good
- Current Location
- Case 90
- Accession Number
- 2731/0085