Illustrated Catalogue of the Collections Obtained from the Pueblos of Zuñi, New Mexico, and Wolpi, Arizona, in 1881 Third Annual Report of the Bureau of Ethnology to the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, 1881-82, Government Printing Office, Washington, 1884, pages 511-594

In this listening experience, the 1881 Smithsonian field report is brought to life as an illustrated catalogue of artifacts gathered from the Zuni of New Mexico and the Wolpi of Arizona. Around 4,900 objects are surveyed, from stone axes, pestles, and turquoise beads to painted pottery, woven baskets, and ceremonial ornaments, each accompanied by its native name. The narrator notes the condition of each piece, distinguishing pristine examples from those altered by later use.

The audio guide also explains the special Unicode characters used in the original text, offering simple transliterations so listeners can follow along without visual plates. Detailed verbal descriptions convey the look of each illustration, whether it’s the curve of a ceremonial jar or the intricate pattern of a dance headdress. By weaving cultural context with careful artifact detail, the recording offers a vivid glimpse into the material world of two Southwest peoples.