Catawba Indian pottery : the survival of a folk tradition /

Based on 30 years of ethnohistorical research and interviews with Catawba potters, this book explores the economics and technology of an ancient craft. Although the Catawba (like other southeastern tribes) made pottery long before European contact, the author is not concerned with connecting the archaeological to the modern. Instead, he focuses on how and why the tradition has continued, pointing out that for several centuries, making and selling pottery was the only reliable source of income. From his interviews with the potters and study of the documents, Blumer is able to demonstrate the relationship between prices and the continuation of the craft. In addition, he discusses how pots were peddled, and describes the shift from door-to-door to more commercial venues, including fairs and gallery shows. The depth of information presented here is unusual, and makes the book a model for those interested in more than technical or aesthetic considerations. The final chapters are concerned with the digging of clay and the production, decoration, and firing of the pieces. The chapter on design motifs is the most speculative, as the author tries unsuccessfully to connect present-day designs with past usage. ^BSumming Up: Recommended. Most levels. M. J. Schneider emerita, University of North Dakota

At last, here's a book on Native American crafts that isn't heavier than your coffee table and that goes into great detail on its subject. Blumer (Bibliography of the Catawba) is an ethnologist and longtime student of the Catawba. "Without pottery there would be no Catawba Nation today" is Blumer's rather jolting assessment. Because of their classic and memorable pottery, this Native American community from the border of North and South Carolina has been able to survive economically, and the pride in their work is evident. Blumer details the history of the tribe's pottery-making and shows how the people have revived the ancient forms and now produce fine coiled and polished ware in both old and new styles. They still find their own clay in carefully protected and secret clay beds, they fire the pots in fireplaces and outdoor shelters, and they have carefully built a sales structure to protect their interests. With a foreword by Catawba leader William Harris and 64 black-and-white illustrations, this is a detailed, vigorous, and dedicated account. Although highly specialized, it is worthy of consideration by art and Native American studies collections.-Gay Neale, formerly with Southside Virginia Community Coll. Lib., Meredithville (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.