Inlay bear fetish style sculpture/fetish, 1980s
Probably Navajo made bear fetish/sculpture, made in the style of Zuni fetishes. The bear is made of jet, with detailed multi stone inlay on all sides. There is an arrowhead and cloud with lightning and rain on the top, and the sides have a one horn priest, sun face, rainbow man, fire god, and more, with a heart line on the bear. The inlay stones include turquoise, mother of pearl, coral, pipestone, clam shell, and spiny oyster shell. This is a very impressive art piece, and while it is not a true Zuni fetish, it is a beautiful carving that is very skillfully done.
The bear is one of the most popular fetishes. It is a protective fetish and symbolizes healing, strength, power, courage, and adaptability.
Measurements: Large size: 8 1/2" long x 5" high x 3" deep