Hopi Art Appraisal

Hopi Polychrome Bowl

This is a hand-coiled ceramic bowl, identified as a Hopi Polychrome Bowl, likely dating from around 1925 based on the provided context. The bowl exhibits a squat, rounded form with a wide, slightly inverted mouth. The primary material is earthenware, characterized by a light cream to off-white slip applied to the exterior and interior rim. The decoration is executed in a dark brown to black pigment, likely organic paint, over the light slip. The design features geometric patterns, typical of Hopi pottery, creating distinct bands around the vessel. Starting from the rim, there is a relatively thin band of solid dark pigment, followed by a wider band containing a repeated geometric motif. This motif includes bold, triangular or trapezoidal shapes filled with solid dark pigment, alternating with areas of the lighter ground color that feature fine parallel lines. Some of these lighter sections also contain small, vertically aligned dots or circles, suggesting stylized eyes or decorative elements. The base of the bowl appears to be undecorated, showing the natural clay body or a less prominent slip color. The quality of craftsmanship is evident in the symmetrical coiling and the relatively consistent application of the slip and paint, though some brushstrokes and minor inconsistencies in pigment density are discernible upon close inspection. The surface shows signs of age and wear, including some abrasions, minor chips or losses to the slip and paint, particularly along the rim and high points of the design. There is also a visible patina, indicating its age and handling over time. No distinct maker's marks or signatures are visible in the provided image. The overall aesthetic is traditional Native American pottery, specifically of the Southwestern United States, with a strong emphasis on indigenous designs and hand-made artistic expression.