key term - Black-on-white pottery

Definition

Black-on-white pottery is a distinctive ceramic style that originated from the Mogollon and Mimbres cultures of the American Southwest, characterized by black designs painted on a white background. This type of pottery not only served practical purposes for storage and cooking but also held significant cultural and artistic value, often featuring intricate geometric patterns and narrative scenes that reflect the societies' beliefs, daily life, and environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Black-on-white pottery typically features a slip coating that creates a smooth white surface, making it an ideal canvas for the bold black designs.
2. The designs often include geometric shapes, animals, and human figures, which are believed to convey cultural narratives or symbolic meanings.
3. This pottery was predominantly created between AD 1000 and 1150, showcasing the artistic peak of the Mimbres culture.
4. Black-on-white pottery was not only functional but also served as a status symbol within these cultures, often used in ceremonial contexts or as grave goods.
5. Archaeologists have found black-on-white pottery at various sites throughout New Mexico, indicating extensive trade networks between different cultural groups.

Review Questions

• How does black-on-white pottery reflect the cultural values and artistic expression of the Mogollon and Mimbres societies?
  • Black-on-white pottery serves as a key representation of the artistic expression and cultural values of the Mogollon and Mimbres societies. The intricate designs often depict scenes from daily life or significant beliefs, showcasing their connection to nature and spirituality. Additionally, this pottery reflects social status, as higher-quality pieces were likely reserved for ceremonial uses or elite members of society.
• Discuss the significance of trade networks in the distribution of black-on-white pottery among ancient Southwestern cultures.
  • Trade networks played a crucial role in the distribution of black-on-white pottery across ancient Southwestern cultures. These networks facilitated not only the exchange of goods but also cultural ideas and artistic influences. As pottery styles evolved through contact with neighboring cultures, they adapted new motifs and techniques, enriching their own artistic traditions while also spreading the popularity of black-on-white styles beyond their regions.
• Evaluate the impact of environmental factors on the development and decline of black-on-white pottery production in the Mogollon and Mimbres cultures.
  • Environmental factors significantly influenced both the development and decline of black-on-white pottery production within the Mogollon and Mimbres cultures. The availability of clay resources, water for slip application, and suitable firing conditions were critical for pottery creation. As climate changes affected agricultural practices in these regions during the late period, leading to resource scarcity and social upheaval, the quality and quantity of pottery production decreased. This decline indicates how intertwined environmental conditions were with cultural practices and economic stability.

Related terms

Mogollon Culture:

An archaeological culture in the Southwestern United States known for its early agricultural practices, distinctive pottery styles, and unique architectural structures.

Mimbres: A sub-group of the Mogollon culture, renowned for its elaborate pottery that often featured elaborate designs, including animals and humans, used as burial goods.

Pottery Types: Various classifications of pottery based on style, function, and decorative techniques, which include utilitarian ware as well as more artistic pieces.