Owl Figure
About this object
History of use
coin bank
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.
Physical description
Large egg-shaped owl bank with large money slot at back of head is made from pale orange clay that is slipped and burnished white with the base speckled in orange. Black feather pattern has been hand painted over the lower portion of the body while the head area is undecorated save for the open beak, small eyes surrounded with long lashes and the close-set slightly convex ears, all in orange.
Date Made
1987
Date Acquired
24 Feb 2009
How Acquired
Donated
Credit Line
The David Evans & Daniel Ma Southwest CollectionMore...
Measurements
Overall: 15 cm x 14 cm x 12 cm
Object Number
2731/127