Posted 10 years ago
caupwhiting
(4 items)
This is a small (6" diameter) Hopi made ashtray I found at a local thrift store. I know it is Hopi, but I am unsure of it's age. I am wondering if it may date from the 1930's or 40's. But, that is pure speculation on my part. Opinions are welcome.
I think that's a good estimate of age.
The Hopi, unlike some of the other tribes, have always remained true to their traditional methods of pottery production, and have never resorted to the use of commercial clay, kilns, or store-bought paints or glaze to put out a cheaper, faster-made product for the tourist market. They might make a form more likely to sell to non-Hopi tourists (ashtrays, cups, vases, teapots, flower pots) and one that was never a part of their own culture, but the way the piece is made always has been traditional. The only "problem" with that is that it makes some unsigned pieces more difficult to date. Pottery made in the 1970's can look the same as some made in the 1930's.
One thing you can use to help date pieces, though, is that the forms did change some, and the market influenced what was produced. As demand and sales for flower pots, teapots, and ashtrays fell off, the potters would switch to something else. You won't find many ashtrays made after the 1960's or so.
Thank you for the response. The ashtray reminds me of pottery the tribes were selling to tourists during that time period. The design is nice, but not especially fine, and the bottom is tapered. Not really practical for it's purpose. Either way, it is worth the $1 I paid for it, regardless of it's age. It looks nice in my collection.
I have been collecting pottery since the late 70's, but this is my first Hopi piece. Most of the pottery in my collection is Acoma, with some Zia, and Jemez thrown in. I have a Lucy Lewis pot I purchased from a reputable Native American store in Salt Lake (Tee Pee Gallery) around 1980. I probably should get some apprasials done as I imagine it is worth considerably more than I paid for it.
Thanks again for your opinion. It is very much appreciated.