Zuni Carved Bear Fetish

Description

Zuni Carved Bear Fetish by Mathias Hustito

This bear was carved from striped serpentine with turquoise eyes, a coral "fish" in his mouth and offering bundle of shell by Zuni artist Mathias Hustito. The offering bundles are meant as a gift offering to the animal spirit. The bundles provide the animal spirit with energy, enhancing its powers and allowing its prayers to be heard more easily. Bear is the guardian of the West. Bear is associated with great strength and is considered a powerful healer.