Small Lugged Jar, Nampeyo of Hano

Hopi, likely Nampeyo of Hano

Circa 1910 | Clay | Item 2271

This is a lovely, small jar with lugs by Nampeyo of Hano. The weight is on the heavier side, characteristic of her work. Most noted here are the designs and the high level of execution. While the lugs may be functional for hanging this jar on the wall, I tend to think that they were meant more as an interesting addition, with a reference the to vernacular use of the lug on Hopi pottery.

The two, opposing designs are the same, but they appear to be by two different hands. This may have been a teaching piece for Nampeyo’s daughter. One side is expertly done, the opposite side is more clumsy.