Selling as a set
Fundraiser for foster cats and dogs
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The object in the image is a Zuni bear fetish carving, specifically a black jet bear with a turquoise heartline inlay.
Origin: Zuni fetishes are intricate carvings of animals made by the Zuni people of the Pueblo, a Native American tribe known for their artistry.
Material: This specific fetish appears to be crafted from black jet, a type of fossilized wood, and features an inlay of turquoise, forming what is known as a "heartline".
Symbolism: Zuni bear fetishes traditionally represent healing and strength. The heartline, often depicted as an arrow pointing from the mouth to the heart, symbolizes the breath path and life force.
Purpose: Historically, fetishes served ceremonial purposes and were believed to embody the spirit of the animal they represented, offering protection, healing, or other blessings to their owners. Today, they are also widely collected as a form of Native American art.
Zuni Corn Maiden fetish.
A Zuni Corn Maiden is a figure in Zuni mythology, often associated with the growth of corn and the bounty of the harvest. These figures are hand-carved, and the carvings represent strength, creation, and wisdom. They are often made from various materials like stone, antler, or shell and can feature inlaid details such as turquoise eyes.