Mexico, Site Of Paquimé, 1000 - 1500 Ad, Terracotta Olla With Polychrome Decorations

Origin: North Mexico
Cultural area: Paquimé (Casas Grandes), Chihuaha state
Period: 1000 - 1500 AD.
Dimensions: 25.5 x 23 cm
Provenance: Former private collection

Beautiful jar (olla) with a slightly hemmed collar with polychrome decorations on a white background. A thin red border takes place above the upper register under the collar. The upper part of the room is characterized by geometric symbols inscribed in triangular registers interspersed with lines. There are spirals, semi circles as well as geometric shapes reminiscent of steps. The lower part of the item left bare.

Before the arrival of the Spaniards, Paquimé, better known as Casas Grandes, was an important cultural center and a major commercial crossroads in northern Mexico. Its area of influence then extended from the current state of Chihuaha to central Mexico, its peak being between the 13th and 14th centuries. Trade among the different populations of Mexico included copper, seashells and ceramics. The current archaeological site lists more than 2000 dwellings thus demonstrating the central square of Casas Grandes as a commercial crossroads.

The piece shows wear of the polychromy to be related to age as well as usual restorations in the lower part (see last photo). Trace of manganese oxides.