Fetishes
Historically, all of the Southwest native peoples make and use fetishes. In fact, most North American indigenous peoples and even Europeans believed in an "object containing a spirit that provides supernatural assistance if treated with proper respect" (Bahti, Mark, Spirit in the Stone [Treasure Chest Books.)
The Zuni are probably the most well-known for their excellent fetishes, perhaps due, at least partially, to the study of them by Frank Cushing in the late Nineteenth Century. The Zuni fetishes are generally kept in a special fetish pot and ceremonially fed corn pollen. The animals are separated into the prey animals (such as a deer) and the hunting animals (such as a mountain lion). Particular animals and colors may make up a "set" representative of the powers in the four directions (or more than four, depending upon the tribe or pueblo). According to Zuni tradition, the guardian animals of the six directions are: the mountain lion - north; the bear - west; the badger - south; the eagle - the sky; the mole - underground; and the wolf - east.
In addition to animals, other objects, such as corn maiden fetishes, act as healers, protectors, and spiritual helpers. The kind and cost of the stone, size, intricacy of carving, polish, animal and beauty of the piece all go into determining the value of a fetish.
Today, fetishes are bought as objects of art and as objects of medicine. Whenever possible, we will try to put a short description of what the fetish represents, but bear in mind that each animal or color may mean something slightly different among the Navajo, Hopi or Pueblo peoples. |  | |
Tatanka is a Lakota word that literally means “bull buffalo,” but Tatanka meant more than that. Ceremonies and daily life revolved around sacred reverence for Tatanka. Bison were the basis of life for Plains Indians, providing spiritual inspiration, food, clothing, shelter, household items, tools, weapons, and ceremonial items. Plains Indians had over 100 uses for the various parts. Bison represent abundance.
Marble Buffalo fetish has inlaid Lapis eyes. Buffalo measures 1 3/4 inches long by 1 1/4 inches tall. The marble has shades of gray, cream, beige and brown, adding to the character of the carving.
"Mama Buffalo with Baby Buffalo" by: Norman Begay- This how the artist has signed the bottom of this fine alabaster carving that is all one piece of stone. The detail is amazing and they have inlaid turquoise eyes and the Mama has black horns of an unknown material.
Roy Davis had a collection of his six directional fetishes go to the moon with the astronauts. Featured are 3 wolves all around 2 inches in length and under a 1/2 inch in height. From top to bottom are Shell, Abalone, Turquoise and Dolomite.
Opal bear has turquoise eyes and is most reflective when he is turned in the light. Appear green till the light changes him to iridescent shades of blues, green and yellows. The fire with in.
Picasso marble bear with a turquoise eyes and inlaid heartline. Lots of detail in the sweet face, fur coat and toes. Bear 2 5/8 inches long and 1 inch wide.
Red coral bear has inlaid black eyes, detailed paws and beautiful natural coloring. Could be by Georgette Quam, since Reynold and Georgette are married. Measures 1 5/8 inches long by 1/2 inch wide.
Sleek pipestone bear has an inlaid sterling silver heart line and turquoise eyes. The Heartline represents the energy with in. The beautiful bear measures 4 inches long, 1 3/4 inches tall and 3/4 inches wide.
Featured Horned Toad is carved of black marble by the talented Russell Shack. After completely carving and polishing his work, Russell then takes the plunge and begins to freehand various etched designs. This toad features an unusual geometric pattern set with turquoise and coral inlay. Very pretty and extremely well done. Signed on the bottom!
Serpentine Bear Fetish with Spirit Bundle. Bear is the guardian fetish of the West. He represents strength and self-knowledge, and is a spiritual guide who also has supernatural powers. Bear is a powerful healing fetish.
