Smudged Wares: The Importance of Color and Iridescence as a Long-Lived Decorative Attribute in the Mogollon Highlands

Abstract

The importance of color and iridescences as decorative attributes is rising in importance in archaeological theory. Following this trend, this study examines smudged vessels dating to the Reserve and Tularosa phases (AD 1000–1250) from central Arizona and New Mexico. Smudging is created by the use of polish and the manipulation of firing atmosphere resulting in a black, iridescent surface. It has long been assumed to be functional, but the decorative aspects of smudging are understudied. I argue that smudging is a decorative method first used in AD 400 that formed the foundation of a long-lived decorative canon lasting until at least AD 1250/1350. To better understand this decorative tradition, a discussion of style (with an emphasis on color and iridescence) and ethnoarchaeological studies on the manipulation of firing atmosphere are reviewed. This is followed by an examination of the distribution of smudged wares in the Southwest, its rising popularity in the Pinelawn/Reserve area through time and a formal analysis of 506 smudged bowls demonstrating its use on bowls used for a variety of functions ranging from miniature vessels to household use to feasting bowls.