Strolling Laughing Bear

This bear appears to be laughing out loud with its big open mouth while strolling along.  Carved from catlinite by Derrick Kaamasee, it has inlaid turquoise eyes with detailed fur all the way around.  Its paws are also detailed and one paw is lifted up as if it is strolling.  Derrick's initials and "Zuni" are carved into the bottom.

Size: 1.25" H x 1.25" L x .675" 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.