Owl Figure Item Number: 2731/109 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Egg-shaped hand made clay owl has two small owls, one larger than the other, each perched on a shoulder. All three have identical detailing of creamy white background on to which have been hand painted black overlapping feathers on the body with stripes at the tips of the wings and tail and curly feathers on the back of the head. Slightly convex sphere ears, tiny loop beak and iris of eyes with long lashes are red.

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

What

Name
Owl Figure
Identification Number
2731/109
Type of Item
figure
Material
clay and paint
Overall
height 10.0 cm, width 12.0 cm, depth 7.0 cm

Who

Culture
Zuni
Creator
Dawn Allopowa (Maker)
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
Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA

When

Creation Date
between 1990 and 2004
Collection Date
during May 2004
Ownership Date
before February 24, 2009 and between May 20, 2004 and February 24, 2009
Acquisition Date
on February 24, 2009

Other

Item Classes
ceramics
Condition
good
Current Location
Case 90
Accession Number
2731/0109