Black Mesa Black-on-White - CA. 1000-1100

Black Mesa Black-on-White was produced in the area around Kayenta in northern Arizona. It was widely traded, though limited in manufacture. The type was fired in a reducing atmosphere, resulting in a bright white slipped finish. The painting style was also widely imitated, with many decortive elements continuing in later styles.

Characteristics

Paste: Light gray to white
Temper: Fine sand
Surface: Polished and slipped
Forms: Bowls, jars, pitchers, effigies
Design: Wide-lined designs with large opposed triangles, lines frequently bordered by pendant dots

BOWL

9" diameter
Forestdale Ruin
Exchange, Field Museum, Chicago
LMA 21050

BOWL (DETAIL)

9" diameter
Forestdale Ruin
Exchange, Field Museum, Chicago
LMA 21050

MINIATURE PITCHER

3-1/2" high
Gift of Alice Marriott
Laboratory of Anthropology
LMA 6885

MINIATURE JAR

3" diameter
Gift of Alice Marriott
Laboratory of Anthropology
LMA 6882

PITCHER

7-1/2" high
LMA 5439

CANTEEN

6-1/2" high
Zim Collection
LMA 9232