Zuni Polychrome Ceremonial Jar

with concave base and bulging sides, decorated with four squatting frogs finely modelled in relief, each with splayed limbs, painted with brown spots, alternating with four elegantly drawn flying insects, moths or butterflies, painted over a creamy slip, similar designs between concentric bands on the tapering neck.

Dirty (soot?) surface but in good original condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The art dealer Pierre Matisse opened his gallery in New York in 1931,  and became one of the most important dealers bringing modern European artists such as Balthus, Dubuffet, and Giacometti to American collectors. He was also a collector of Tribal art and Art of the Americas.

For related examples see Frank and Harlow, 1990, pl. XXX: "The sculpted frogs and the large insect designs...are sacred figures that often occur on Zuni ceremonial vessels. Such pottery was in supplications for rain..."