Mexican Onyx Bear

This old style bear fetish was carved by Bill Tsikewa, Sr. from Mexican onyx.  He inlaid lapis eyes, and made a fabulous bundle of an abalone arrowhead bound with heishi, turquoise and coral beads.  The Mexican onyx is translucent.  It feels so good in the hand!

Size: 1.625 H x 2.625" L x .975" 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.