Big Walking Bear

Herbert Halate carved this big walking bear from marble.  It has inlaid turquoise eyes and detailed face, paws, and fur.  The offering bundle is a long, narrow turquoise.  It feels so good in the hand, very strong.

Size: 3.75" L x 1.25" H x 1.25" W

Bears are the guardians of the western gate in Zuni Pueblo.  They are associated with healing at all levels, protection, and a reminder to restore oneself during the winter months.  In some traditions a part of the bear is rubbed all over infants to imbue them with power, strength, and good health.

Traditionally, Zuni carvings are symbolically fed cornmeal.   Each Zuni fetish comes in a box with a descriptive card and a tiny bit of corn meal to tide them over until they reach you.