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.

Small, egg-shaped owl with large horizontal extended wings that wrap around to touch tail. Orange clay is exposed at mouth opening and the rest of the body is covered in white with the feather patterning and eyelashes hand painted in thick brush strokes of black. Pincer-like beak, conical ears and eyes are orange.