First posted by C. Dean Wilson 2014

Villa Ahumada Polychrome was defined by Brand (1935). This type consists of similar vessels some of which are true polychromes with decorations in deep red or orange and black pigment (Brand 1935; DiPeso 1974; Sayles 1936). Slip is soft and commonly wears or flakes off. Surfaces are covered with a chalky white slip applied to areas with painted decorations. Unslipped and undecorated portions of a decorated surface are buff to tan and contrast dramatically with slipped and painted prortions. Other examples are decorated in black pigment only. Some are covered with a dark cream colored slip with a darker shade on the bottom below. Vessel include bowls that curve out at the end. Jars tend to be squat with a curved rim. Other forms include human animal effigies. Designs are boldly executed in balanced red and black solid balanced opposing elements. Designs are organized in a band that is usually framed by single lines that are often divided into panels. The band is usually framed by an upper and lower framing line. Design motifs include triangles with interlocking scrolls and bent lines, keys, step triangles, fine lines, dots, and circles. The elements of the decoration are sometimes outlined in a fine line of a different color. Decorative elements may also be repeated in a side strip extending from immediately below the rim to beneath the shoulder. Banding lines of balanced colors to which the elements are attached are generally used.

References:
Brand, D.D.
1935 The Distribution of Pottery Types in Northwest Mexico. American Anthropologist (2):287-305.

DiPeso, Charles C., John B. Rinaldo, y Gloria C. Fenner
1974 Casas Grandes: A Fallen Trading Center of the Gran Chichimeca,Vol. 6: Ceramics and Shell. Amerind Foundation Publications 9(4–8). Northland Press, Flagstaff.

Sayles, E.B.
1936 Archaeological Survey of Chihuahua, Mexico. Medallion Paper 22. Gila Pueblo, Globe, Arizona

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Villa Ahumada Polychrome bowl

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