Owl Figure

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.

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.

Round, gourd-shaped orange clay owl has hand painted body detailing in black and orange over a beige slipped background, base is painted orange. Belly area is an undecorated panel, framed by the scattered feather patterning that covers lower portion of body, except for the tiniest of striped wings and tail, and head area is spotted. Eyes have holes at pupil and the large beak hooks over the open mouth.