Owl Figure Item Number: 2731/141 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Plump. orange clay pottery owl, hand painted in reddish brown and orange onto a polished cream background, has mesh-like feathers from under which peep feet with painted toes. Curls cover the head and a thick outline drapes from two-tone open beak to conical ears, below eyes with half moons and rings that are framed by v-shaped lashes.
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
- Collected during January 2006
- Owned by Daniel Ma before February 24, 2009
- Owned by David Evans
- 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
- Collection Date
- during January 2006
- Ownership Date
- before February 24, 2009
- Acquisition Date
- on February 24, 2009
Other
- Item Classes
- ceramics
- Condition
- good
- Accession Number
- 2731/0141