Lines identified as sky-bands shown in plate 79 vary from single (_a_)
or double (_b_) to a broad undecorated band (_c_). In its simplest
form the sky-band extends entirely across the inside of the bowl, but
in the more complicated examples it surrounds the vessel parallel with
the rim surrounding the design on the inside of the bowl. Appendages of
several kinds as dots (_d_) or as stars (_f_), made up of oblong figures
in terrace form placed at intervals, are attached to this band. The
sky-band itself varies in width, being broad or narrow, crossed by series
of vertical parallel, zigzag, or other lines arranged at intervals, or
alternating with geometrical figures (_g_, _h_). In a single example
(_i_) the decoration is etched into the burnt clay, although in most
instances the decorations are painted.
Various explanations of the meaning of this band have been suggested,
it being regarded by some of the priests as the Milky Way, by others as
the path of the sun through the sky, but so far as known this ancient
design is rare on modern Hopi ware.[24] According to Harrington the Tewa
recognize a “backbone” of the sky.
In several Hopi legends there are allusions to a monster bird that
had been killed and hung in the sky by a cultus hero; and the general
character of this decorative band in Sikyatki pottery decoration renders
it probable that it was intended to represent some supernatural being, as
the Sky god.
The chief interest of the Sikyatki sky-band lies in the figure or
figures attached to it, or suspended from it, and regarded as the
conventionalized representation of a bird. Sometimes the creature is
placed longitudinally, sometimes vertically. In some instances it is
elaborately drawn, in others it is a simple geometric figure bearing so
little resemblance to a life form as to make it one of the most highly
conventionalized of all ancient Hopi designs.
Like other bird designs, these suspended figures may be considered
under two heads: (1) Those attached to the band in such a way as to be
seen from above (the dorsal side) or from below (the ventral side); and
(2) those suspended lengthwise of the band, showing one side in which
the tail and other parts are twisted into a plane at right angles. The
structure and relations of the hanging figure can best be seen by holding
the bowl in such manner that the sky-band is horizontal, bringing the
body of the suspended animal into the lower semicircle.