Vessel with Painted Motifs (olla)

The repeating spiral and stepped motifs seen here relate to a particular ceramic style produced in northern Arizona and New Mexico called Tularosa black-on-white. The complex composition of the black designs complements the large size of the vessel form. With its rounded body and narrow neck, this vessel is referred to as an "olla." Typically used for storing water and other liquids, ollas have a small opening that prevents evaporation in the desert heat. Ollas were also used for cooking; the thin walls of the vessel allowed for changes in heating temperatures while the shape helped retain moisture in food. When used in irrigation, ollas were buried between plants with only the neck exposed; the roots would receive water that would slowly seep from the vessel.