Navajo and Zuni wolf carving in shell

Description

Navajo and Zuni wolf made from shell hand carved by Ed Lementine. Genuine Zuni fetish, or totem or Power animal. Comes with certificate of Authenticity. Height of wolf is approximately 15mm, length 40mm, depth 10mm, weight is 17g. Absolutely gorgeous piece.

American Indians have used fetishes throughout recorded history. A fetish is an object believed to have magic powers. These, made by artists amongst the Zuni Indians of New Mexico and the Navajo people, all relate to animals and are carved in semi-precious stones or bones.

The Zuni Indians believe in 6 cardinal guardian fetishes – the mountain lion, the badger, the wolf and the bear, the mole and the eagle. The adornments, if any, on the backs of the fetishes in turquoise, coral etc represent arrow heads or feathers to enhance the fetish’s power. The better treatment a fetish receives, the better performance it is likely to provide. The power and strength of a fetish relates to the capabilities of the animal portrayed and is obtained by taking deep breaths from the fetish’s nostrils.

This wonderful wolf carving is inspired by the Native American lores and legends.

Wolves figure prominently in the mythology of nearly every Native American tribe. In most Native cultures, Wolf is considered a medicine being associated with courage, strength, loyalty, and success at hunting. Like bears, wolves are considered closely related to humans by many North American tribes, and the origin stories of some Northwest Coast tribes, such as the Quileute and the Kwakiutl, tell of their first ancestors being transformed from wolves into men. The Zunis carve stone wolf fetishes for protection, ascribing to them both healing and hunting powers. Wolves are also one of the most common clan animals in Native American cultures. Wolf was an important clan crest on the Northwest Coast and can often be found carved on totem poles.

The supplier – Brave Designs – operates a fair trade policy and all prices are set by either the manufacturer or individual designer. The Navajo Nation has been decimated by recent events and ongoing poverty, and now has the highest per capita rate of infection than New York. 40% already live below the poverty line. Delays in getting medical supplies, limited access to food stores, hospitals and even access to running water in overcrowded homes and the indifference of the government have all exacerbated the problem. Brave Designs is pledging 15% of all purchases in support of the Navajo people. So shop now and help us make a real difference. Thank you.

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