Hi Olivia,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Effigy vessels (pots incorporating sculpted animals, birds, or anthropomorphic forms) are among the more distinctive and collectible Zuni forms. The sculpted birds attached to either side are characteristic of Zuni work. Birds are significant in Zuni cosmology as messengers between the physical and spiritual worlds. The butterfly motif on the body represents transformation, renewal, and the natural world. The stepped (terraced) patterns around the neck often symbolize clouds, rain, or mountains — central themes in Puebloan art that tie pottery to prayers for rain and fertility.

This wide-bodied jar, with flaring rim, was likely coil-built and traditionally fired. The textured surface and matte pigments suggest traditional mineral and vegetal paints rather than commercial glazes. I can confirm that it likely dates to the late 19th or very early 20th Century.

Other Zuni bird effigy pots of similar size, decoration and vintage have sold at auction recently for prices ranging from $300-500.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An antique Zuni pottery bird effigy pot
Late 19th or early 20th Century
With a white ground, with black geometric decoration to the neck as well as a painted butterfly, with three applied birds as handles.
Height: 6-1/2 inches; diameter: 9-1/2 inches
CONDITION: Handles have been reattached.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$ 300-500*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia