Owl Figure Item Number: 2731/66 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Large, pear-shaped, hand made and hand painted, orange clay owl has small bowl-like object attached to its chest and a painted red base. Large brownish black scallop feathers are roughly scattered over a grayish beige body, becoming wavy lines and short curls around the stubby black ears. Large orange eyes are recessed with dark bulging pupils and the hooked beak is like an open pincer.
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 1920 and 1949
- Collected during November 2007
- Owned by Daniel Ma before February 24, 2009
- Owned by David Evans between November 26, 2007 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
When
- Creation Date
- between 1920 and 1949
- Collection Date
- during November 2007
- Ownership Date
- before February 24, 2009 and between November 26, 2007 and February 24, 2009
- Acquisition Date
- on February 24, 2009
Other
- Item Classes
- ceramics
- Condition
- fair
- Current Location
- Case 90
- Accession Number
- 2731/0066