posotes

Posotes are a type of indigenous ceramic pottery traditionally made by the Zuni people of New Mexico. These pots are characterized by their distinctive black and red geometric designs, often depicting stylized animals or human figures. The pottery is typically made from clay sourced from the Zuni River valley, which is then hand-coiled and shaped. Before firing, the pots are decorated with pigments derived from natural materials, such as iron oxide for red and carbon for black. The firing process, traditionally done in open pits, results in a durable yet relatively thin-walled pottery.

Posotes hold significant cultural and spiritual importance for the Zuni people, often used in ceremonies and for everyday purposes. The designs are not merely decorative; they carry symbolic meanings related to Zuni cosmology, mythology, and daily life. While traditionally made for functional and ceremonial use, Zuni potters continue to create posotes today, preserving this ancestral art form and adapting it to contemporary markets while maintaining its cultural integrity. The techniques and artistic styles have been passed down through generations, ensuring the continuation of this unique ceramic tradition.