Unused Vintage Zuni Fetish - Serpentine Standing Bear - Barney Calavaza

Description

Serpentine standing bear fetish by Barney Calavaza (unsigned). The bear is looking up and over his/her shoulder and had great expression with turquoise eyes. The bear is one of the most important fetishes and is the Guardian of the West and the "great protector". The bear represents great strength, power, self-knowledge, healing and protection and is known for his/her curative powers. This bear is approximately 2 3/8 x 1" x 1/2".
Fetishes are highly respected and are mystical, powerful talismans valued by Native American and other cultures throughout the world. The animal spirit is believed to reside within the stone. The Zuni carvers are perhaps the best known.   We purchased this fetish new for gallery inventory in 1997 and it has been in our safe since that time. Please examine carefully and let us know if you have any questions or need further information/photos.  Please visit our store for more exciting contemporary and traditional Native American pieces from a variety of artists and tribal affiliations. American West Boutique was founded in 1992 and is an online seller of Native American Jewelry and Art, cowboy/girl boots, leather and suede and apparel. Shipped to Continental US only by UPS to street addresses only. No PO boxes, please. Payment must be received within 5 days of sale or item may be relisted.