Native American Pottery

Pottery was produced by countless Native American tribes throughout the country. The appearance of pottery coincides with the arrival of agriculture in North America. As previously nomadic peoples became sedentary, the need to gather water, store grains, and preserve seeds became essential. While early vessels were strictly utilitarian and lacked adornment, the use of pottery in ceremonies and rituals led to an increase in decorative techniques and designs. Cisco’s collection of prehistoric pottery includes pieces made by the Anasazi of the Southwest, and the Mississippian culture of the Midwest. Our inventory of historic pottery features Acoma, Santo Domingo, Hopi, Santa Clara pottery from notable Native American artists.