A deep-dive into the distinctive art form and how it has not just survived but thrived across centuries.
The Cherokee Nation, known as one of the “Five Civilized Tribes,” is famous for its rich history and culture. Among their numerous contributions to art and civilization, their pottery stands out with its distinctive designs, techniques, textures, and the cultural significance intricately woven into every creation. Cherokee pottery signifies the tribe’s history and the evolution of their artistry. This article aims to delve into the long-standing tradition of pottery in Cherokee culture and its significant influence in the realm of international craftsmanship.
A Journey Back to the Origins
Cherokee pottery can be traced back to the Late Archaic period (3000-1000 B.C.), according to Betty Baker, the Executive Director of the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum. Early Cherokee pottery was very basic — plain and cord-marked, with no decoration. Their primitive form, however, has captivated archaeologists, historians, and art enthusiasts alike by the expressively simple yet sophisticated artistry they exhibit.
Centuries later, around 800 A.D., the Cherokee started adding decorations like stamped geometric patterns, and later illustrations of animals, plants, and even humans. The periods between 800 and 1500 A.D., often referred to as the Woodland and Mississippian periods, significantly influenced the evolution of Cherokee pottery. During these periods, the pottery items turned more complex in designs and usage.
Techniques of The Ancestors
Cherokee pottery doesn’t involve the potter’s wheel – these are hand-crafted beauties. They used the coiling technique, where soft clay is rolled into long, thin rolls (or coils) and then layered to create the vessel’s form. The inside of the pottery item is then smoothed down, often with a shell or a stone.Source
Some distinct styles of Cherokee pottery include shell tempering and river cane burnishing. Shell tempering is a process where flakes of shells are mixed with clay, while the river cane burnishing gives the pottery surface a bright, polished finish. The pottery is generally baked in an open fire, rather than a kiln, a technique referred to as ‘low fire’ technique.
The Story Behind Each Piece
Cherokee pottery is not merely a practical craft but is deeply entwined with the tribe’s spiritual beliefs and cultural narratives. Every pattern and symbol in Cherokee pottery has a specific meaning. For instance, the swirl represents the wind, the lines denote the path of life, and the seven-point star symbolizes the seven Cherokee clans. Source
The Cherokee believed that every pot had a spirit, and hence, old or broken pots were ceremonially killed. A pot’s ‘death’ was marked by an intentional, careful breaking known as ‘killing the pot.’
The Revival of Cherokee Pottery
Around the 18th century, with increased European contact and colonial influences, Cherokee pottery’s practice began to wane in consequence of access to metal pots and pans delivered by European traders.
However, in the late 20th Century, driven by a renewed interest in indigenous art and culture, Cherokee pottery experienced a resurgence. Cherokee potters like Anna Mitchell, Joel Queen, and Amanda Swimmer worked hard to revive this traditional craft.
The legacy of Cherokee pottery continues to be nurtured and developed by a new generation of artisans. Many modern-day Cherokee potters have been successful in blending traditional methods and contemporary aesthetics to create their unique expressions. The Cherokee Heritage Centre offers comprehensive classes on pottery-making to keep this ancient art alive.
Conclusion
Cherokee pottery had a rich, diverse history and continues to capture the essence of the Cherokee culture. Recognized internationally as a distinctive craft, it is not only a testament to the tribe’s artistic dexterity and innovative spirit but also an eloquent reflection of their deep-rooted traditions and spiritual beliefs.
Cherokee pottery links the past, present, and future into a continuous thread of cultural survival and expression. Each piece made by a Cherokee artisan today carries the fingerprint of a remarkable heritage and the promise of a prolific cultural legacy.