North America, Southwestern US, New Mexico, Mimbres Valley, ca. 1000 to 1150 CE. A rare example of a pottery bowl - formed via the coil-and-scrape technique - that displays an unusual tadpole within the center of the basin. The curious creature features its signature ovoid body, a singular piercing eye as well as a broad, lengthy tail, and a set of bent legs that emulate those it will grow when becoming a frog or toad. The tadpole is surrounded with white space within the basin before having both thick and thin stripes in russet hues course across the top of the interior. A kill hole situated in the center of the basin indicates that this was placed over the face of a deceased individual to ensure evil spirits were kept away while their soul traveled through the hole and into the afterlife. Size: 6.125" L x 5.95" W x 3.25" H (15.6 cm x 15.1 cm x 8.3 cm)
This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report will accompany the item upon purchase. Additionally, all pigment tested using XRF showing areas of restoration contain titanium pigment, all other areas are consistent with pigment from ancient Anasazi regions.
Provenance: private Houston, Texas, USA collection; ex-private Houston, Texas, USA, collection, acquired before 2000
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#181476
Condition
Repaired from about 4 pieces, "V" shaped restoration along one side of wall and dollar-shped hole in base, with resurfacing and overpainting along new material and break lines; kill hole in center of basin was intentional and dates to ancient times. Abrasions and fading to original pigment, with light earthen deposits, and some rough edges around kill hole, otherwise in great condition. Wonderful preservation to tadpole.