This duck-effigy pot is identified as the McElmo Black-on-white type created about 1000 - 1250 AD. Part of the Chappell Collection (a private collection on loan to the Anasazi Heritage Center), the vessel measures about 6 inches or 15 cm long and has black paint on a white clay slip surface.

Duck effigies appear in range of styles, from nearly abstract shapes to detailed representations with legs and molded wings. Miniature forms have been found, as well as some 'pure' effigies, i.e. not designed as containers.

Note that the opening on this container has a "T" shape-- this form may be symbolic; it is seen elsewhere as a decorative painted design, and as the shape of the doorway in some dwellings.

Since ducks are associated with water, this object might have carried a magical power to bring rain.

(78.2.1204)

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