Bear with Sunface

This jasper bear was carved by Georgia Quandelacy and has inlaid turquoise eyes.  It will always be warm with the side at its side which is carved from jet, turquoise, Mother of Pearl, and spiny oyster shell.  It is signed "GQ" and "zuni" on the bottom.  The natural lines in the stone are not deep fractures.  This little bear feels very good in the hand.

Size: 1.375" H x 2" L x .5" 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.