Owl Figure Item Number: 2731/153 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Vintage red clay owl with red bottom is hand made and hand painted with dark brown body detailing over a cream background. Body is covered with large spots and the top side of the wings are striped. Large pouch with cream interior protrudes from belly and the thick beak is hooked over a large open mouth.
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 Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico, USA between 1851 and 1880
- Collected in Shiprock, New Mexico, USA during 2003
- Owned by Daniel Ma before February 24, 2009
- Owned by David Evans between December 11, 2003 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
- Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico, USA
- Collected in
- Shiprock, New Mexico, USA
When
- Creation Date
- between 1851 and 1880
- Collection Date
- during 2003
- Ownership Date
- before February 24, 2009 and between December 11, 2003 and February 24, 2009
- Acquisition Date
- on February 24, 2009
Other
- Item Classes
- ceramics
- Condition
- good
- Accession Number
- 2731/0153