Zuni Banded Onyx Bear Fetish with Turquoise, Lapis & Arrowhead Bundle

A Zuni carved bear fetish worked from a single block of banded onyx, the layered strata reading in broad ribbons of cream, caramel, deep red, and crystalline white across the flank. The carver oriented the stone so the pale, sugary bands run along the back and lower legs while the darker translucent core forms the muzzle and body — the natural geology doing much of the visual work. A shallow gap defines the hind leg from the foreleg on the near side, and an incised line marks the shoulder. The base carries an incised maker's mark.

Lashed to the back with a leather thong is an offering bundle: a triangular carved-stone spearpoint or blade set with a cluster of turquoise, lapis, amethyst, and a tiger's-eye arrowhead. In Zuni tradition, bear fetishes serve as guardian and healer figures; the bundled offering is a gift to the spirit held within the carving. The selection of turquoise, lapis, and amethyst in the bundle — each stone carrying its own ceremonial resonance — and the quality of the banding in the onyx body mark this as a well-considered piece within that living tradition.

CONDITION

Good with no remarkable damage. Polish is bright across the body; the offering bundle and thong are secure. Minor surface wear consistent with handling.

DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS

• 3 1/4" H × 4 1/8" W × 1" D
• Weight: 268.2 grams
• Materials: Banded onyx body; offering bundle of turquoise, lapis, amethyst, and tiger's-eye arrowhead on leather thong
• Maker-marked (incised monogram) on base
• U.S. Quarter Shown for Scale — Not Included