Miniature wedding vase

Pueblo weddings often make use of the Wedding Vase. This miniature is exactly the same as the larger, useful versions. The double spout is intended to allow the marrying couple to each drink of the water inside, from the separate spouts. The bridge between represents the merging of the two individuals and families, clans.

The jar is hand coiled in traditional fashion, sanded smooth. Then it is stone polished for a gleaming finish. Firing is done on the ground in an enclosed kiln. The last step is the covering of the fire in crushed manure which ignites and sends black carbon deep inside the kiln. The pottery, with pores open wide, absorb the carbon, encase it, and change the red native clay to black – beauty!

This jar is from Santa Clara Pueblo, made by notable pottery Dorothy Gutierrez. Measures 3.25″ x 2.25″ x 2″. Excellent condition.