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Zuni Fetishes |
Shop for Zuni Fetishes |
Zuni Fetishes are an animal, bird or figure hand carved from stone, shell, antler, wood or other natural materials. Zuni Fetishes were first carved as "hunting" fetishes. When taken on a hunting expedition they would ensure a plentiful and successful hunt. Each fetish is believed to have a spirit within. If treated and taken care of properly Zuni Fetishes will help guide you on the right path of life. When you purchase or are given a Zuni Fetish it is your responsibility to care for and treat it with the proper respect it deserves. Fetishes are believed to feed on cornmeal, so don't neglect to feed your fetish. "Offerings" are often attached to the fetish by the artist, however you may make your own "offering" to your fetish by attaching a small stone or feather adornment. It will be greatly appreciated and you will be rewarded with the healing or strength you desire. We cannot guarantee that a fetish carving will change your life, but in our many years of experience we have seen astonishing changes in peoples lives as a result of their belief in the power of the fetish. Our fetishes are Zuni carved unless otherwise noted, out of a variety of stone and shell. Prices will vary depending on detail, artist and the medium used. With your fetish you will receive a description of the stone used, what the animal or figure represents and instructions on care and feeding of your new found friend
Prized for their "down to earth" beauty and spiritual renewal, fetishes have long been an important part of Native American culture. When a fetish maker prays over his created work, a mystical power is believed to be released which can assist him in finding a solution to his present problems. All Southwestern tribes make and use fetishes. However, the Zuni people have developed a reputation for being skillful carvers. There are six cardinal guardian fetishes which are symbolic of the six directions. The first is a mountain lion which represents the North. The South belongs to the badger, the West to the bear, while the East goes to the wolf. Additionally, the mole guards the inner earth, while the eagle protects the heavenly regions.
A little history about Zuni Fetishes you may find interesting.
Zuni Fetishes were thought to be so powerful by the U.S. Government that in the late 1800's Frank Hamilton Cushing was sent out to the Zuni Reservation to live among the Zuni people and investigate and study the mysterious power of the Zuni Fetishes. His task was to see if they were a possible threat to the U.S. Government and the country. His research & findings along with primitave drawings of fetish carvings can be found in what is now published as a book entitled "Zuni Fetishes" by Frank Hamilton Cushing.
Another little tidbit on fetish carvings you may not be aware of, is the fact that they are believed to be so powerful and beneficial to your well being, that a Directional Fetish Carving set carved by Navajo Fetish carver Roy Davis and his brothers Herbert and Jeff, was sent into space aboard the space shuttle "Endeavor" in 1994.
M
any people are of the belief that the Zuni Fetishes are a new or fairly recent art form as they have evolved into such realistic and detailed carvings. Zuni Fetishes were first used as early as 650 A.D. The fetishes that have been in Zuni tribal possesion or in individual possesion for centuries are considered to be the most holy and powerful fetishes as well as the move valuable fetishes.
Although many southwest tribes carve fetishes, the Zuni Fetish carvers are generally acknowledged as doing the finest work among all of the tribes. Navajos will barter for Zuni Fetishes of sheep, cattle or goats to help keep their herds and flocks healthy and ensure propagation.
Check in from time to time for new information on the "mysterious and powerful" Zuni Fetishes!
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