Zuni Carved Serpentine Bear Fetish with Turquoise, Coral & Abalone Bundle View Watchlist >
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Lot # G458
System ID # 30305399
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Zuni Carved Serpentine Bear Fetish with Turquoise, Coral & Abalone Bundle
A Zuni-style bear fetish carved from mottled olive-green serpentine, the stone's natural banding and darker inclusions running through the compact, walking-bear form. The muzzle and legs are worked in a paler, honeyed tone, with incised claws at each paw and a slightly upturned snout. Inlaid turquoise eyes sit set into the face. The signature detail is the offering bundle lashed across the back with sinew: a fanned abalone shell arrowhead paired with turquoise, branch coral, and additional stone beads.
The bear is among the most enduring subjects in Zuni fetish carving, associated with strength, healing, and the west among the six directional guardians. The bundled offering — a miniature arrowhead and prayer stones bound to the animal's spine — follows long tradition, meant to feed and honor the fetish's spirit. This is a well-handled working piece with a warm patina from years of contact.
CONDITION
Good with no remarkable damage. Surface shows handling wear and light mineral bloom to the stone consistent with age and use. The sinew binding and offering bundle remain intact and secure.
DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS
- 1 1/4" H × 2 3/4" W × 9/16" D
- Weight: 33.9 grams
- Materials: Serpentine, turquoise, coral, abalone shell
- U.S. Quarter (0.955" Dia.) Shown for Scale — Not Included
