The History of Pottery & Pueblo Indians
Pueblo Indians create, use and sell pottery as part of their existence. Pueblos thrive in a modern world because of their ability to hold onto tradition, which keeps their pottery from extinction. The Pueblos profit from the distribution of their art all over the world.
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Function
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Pueblo Indians began making their own clay pottery at least 2,000 years ago to use for everyday chores and storage. Today, the pottery is still used for the same purpose. They also made special pottery to be buried with their dead.
Geography
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Pueblo Indians inhabit Colorado, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico.
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Technique
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The Pueblo Indians prospect clay from pits or minds close to their home--these locations are usually kept secret. Smaller pieces are hand molded, while larger items are made using flat coils. The pottery is hardened by open outdoor bonfire reaching 1,300 degrees. Pottery is then painted with pigments made from residues of boiled plants or finely ground metallic rocks.
Commercial Sales
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After the introduction of the railroad, tourists were able to get up close and personal with the Pueblos and their pottery. Soon, traders set up trading posts throughout the southwest, and merchants began to sell the pottery for souvenirs.
Design
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Each piece of Pueblo pottery possesses symbols that are indigenous to the beliefs of the tribe. Pueblos, however, do not reveal the meaning of the symbolism in order to keep ceremonial rituals and traditions sacred.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Seamus Murray Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Tony Oliver
