ANASAZI POTTERY

The Anasazi, which means "Ancient Ones", are thought to have been ancestors of the Pueblo Indians. They settled in the Four Corners; between the states of Utah, New Mexico, Colorado and Arizona. Settlement can be traced back to around 200 AD through 1300 AD. The Anasazi were wandering hunters who lived this type of lifestyle until around 6000 B.C. During the last B.C. centuries, the Anasazi began maize horticulture, supplementing their food gathering, and this became a large role in the economy. The Anasazi are very well known for their beautiful and fragile forms of pottery. Many pieces have been uncovered and restored over the years.

The Anasazi culture was one that was widespread, and many varieties exist with their pottery. Types of Anasazi pottery is characterized by what is called wares. Wares are alike in structure and decorations. Each ware will have roots in history that can be traced to the beginning if Anasazi culture. Pots that were in use everyday were made from a grayish material, and the bottom was not a flat surface. They were formed from sandstone and shale clay. The pots that were worth the most had painted designs made out of red or black, and were designed by using a brush that was typically made from a yucca plant. A big difference in Anasazi pottery is that all the pieces are made from being fired outside, on the ground. A kiln or pottery wheel was not used.

ANASAZI POTTERY