Posted 2 years ago
SuperVinta…
(18 items)
Hi I was wondering if this was Hopi and is that a bear paw symbol? It is about 2.5 x 4" Hand formed is it from the 1920's era? Any help will be greatly appreciated I do like this bear paw or Beaver? symbol there is 6 designs going around the rim.Thank-you in advance any feedback would help.
Yes, it is Hopi.
The most important clue to the tribal identity of an object, is not the design patterns, the most important is the material the item is made from, in this case the clay itself, which is distinctly Hopi.
Other than that, the method of construction, the form itself, specific techniques associated with each tribe; and then, the design patterns, since design patterns can be copied by anyone, anytime.
A lot of Hopi pottery designs are copied from those found on prehistoric pottery, and while there can be a lot of "opinions," about the meanings, no one can determine what was in the original potter's mind when the design was created.
I don't see any "bear paw" patterns here. The designs that look similar to bear paws are usually identified as symbols associated with birds and feathers, and date back centuries on Hopi pottery. Over time, they have become increasingly stylized and more simple, to the point it is often difficult to tell the origin.
Thanks so much Canyonroad I really appreciate your time and wisdom. You are a blessing to CW community ! Best Regards, Nadia