Red Over Tan or Redware San Juan Olla or Water Jar

Ohkay Owingeh, or San Juan Pueblo

Circa 1890 | Item 2235

This is an elegant jar, with the simply stated form and the continuous color of red on the upper two thirds. Here the slip has been added, whereas the lower one third is the natural tan color of the pottery that is then stone polished. A few black fire clouds are seen on the underbelly and as well along the crenulated rim. The base is indented showing that this jar was most likely made to carry water over the top of the head. On this base is an old sticker saying “San Juan $1.00” along side an inventory number 1/74 that no longer has any reference. These red ollas are rare and this one is a wonderful example.