A Couple of Bears

Zuni carver Tim Lementino made these bears from Mexican onyx.  Their mouths are open indicating they are having a conversation or singing together.  The offering bundle is made of white clam shell with eight turquoise beads.  These bears were part of a collection of older Zuni carvings.  More about bears below.

Size: 2" H x 2.25" L x 1.5" 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.