These beautiful pots and vessels are like none in the world because of the unique process by which they are made and because of the distinctive decorations that make them truly special. Around the turn of the century, photographers were documenting the old ways of American Indians, though today many Puebloan potters still use the same painstaking methods their ancestors did to make their vessels. With all the time and care that goes into making a Pueblo vessel, it’s no wonder that they have remained highly sought-after and valued pieces.

Four Hopi women, two are decorating pottery and two, with squash-blossom hairstyles, are standing in the background, circa 1903. Via/ Library of Congress
Hopi potter decorating a vessel, 1900. Via/ Library of Congress
Pottery painter circa 1906. Via/ Library of Congress
Firing pots at Santa Clara Pueblo, New Mexico, circa 1905. Via/ Library of Congress
Hopi woman using the coil method to build a pot, circa 1903. Via/ Library of Congress
Potter building her kiln, circa 1906. Via/ Library of Congress

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