Owl Figure Item Number: 2731/82 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Roughly shaped, orange clay owl, standing on long legs with three-toe pronged feet, has a hole in its head and stubby little wings. Eyes and splotchy feathers that cover the entire body have been hand painted in black onto a greyish beige background. Snout-like beak and knobby ears look pinched.
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 before 1900
- Collected during April 2007
- Owned by Daniel Ma before February 24, 2009
- Owned by David Evans between April 29, 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
- New Mexico, USA
When
- Creation Date
- before 1900
- Collection Date
- during April 2007
- Ownership Date
- before February 24, 2009 and between April 29, 2007 and February 24, 2009
- Acquisition Date
- on February 24, 2009
Other
- Item Classes
- ceramics
- Condition
- fair
- Accession Number
- 2731/0082