Bowl with Interior Rain Bird Decoration

Artist Nampeyo (Hopi-Tewa, Native American, 1859–1942)

Culture Hopi

Date1890s–1920s

Mediumearthenware

Dimensions24.8 x 8.3 cm (9 3/4 x 3 1/4 in.)

ClassificationsCeramics

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Charles G. Washburn

Object number1933.37

DescriptionEmblematic figures in brown and black onlight yellow ground. Rain bird in interior.
Label TextIn the 1890s, archaeologists began excavating the abandoned Hopi village of Sityatki. There they discovered 16th and 17th century pottery decorated with symbols from ancient Hopi sacred art. Nampeyo, a leading Hopi potter of the late 19th century, began copying these striking works, initiating a revival of Sityatki pottery. In this bowl the central figure, painted in the stylized Sityatki manner, represents the Rain Bird. This sacred bird was believed to carry petitions for rain to the gods and return to the pueblo to sing its song of answered prayers to the waiting farmers. This style remains popular today among Hopi potters, including many who claim descent from the famous Nampeyo.ProvenanceMrs. Charles G. Washburn, Worcester, MA; to Worcester Art Museum, 1933

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