This presentation will take place in the Indianapolis Special Collections Room (ISCR) on the 6th floor within Central Library.
Presenter: Ray Brown
This presentation is part of the Indianapolis Special Collections Room (ISCR) educational programs in partnership with the Marion County Historical Society (MCHS). Before the in-person presentation, please check out the Reading List by clicking here.
The artifact pictured here is water jar (or "olla." Zuni peoples recognized the importance of water in their daily lives. Water and items associated with water became part of their belief system. During the 1800s water jars or containers featured abstract designs of rain, vegetation and animals associated with water. This particular abstract design features parallel lines that represent rain and slightly coiled circles that represent a ceremonial drumstick. During the first half of the 20th century, Zuni made fewer ceramics because of ready made items offered at stores. Today, many contemporary Zuni potters produce traditional themed ceramics, but with their own individual interpretations. This artifact is in the collection of The Children's Museum of Indianapolis and part of Digital Indy's online collection from The Children's Museum of Indianapolis.
AGE GROUP: | Seniors | Educators | Adults |
EVENT TYPE: | Multicultural | Lecture/Panel Discussion | Indianapolis Special Collections Room |
As the hub of the Indianapolis Public Library system, Central Library showcases renowned architecture and services. The original 1917 building, designed by Paul Cret and constructed of Indiana limestone in the Greek Doric style, was considered one of the most outstanding secular buildings in the U.S. Its six-story glass and steel-framed addition, designed by Evans Woollen, opened in 2007.