Strong Standing Bear

Kenny Chavez carved this strong standing bear from travertine.  He inlaid silver eyes and a bold silver heartline.  It appears to be searching the heavens...perhaps for a sign?  More about bears below.

Size: 2.25" H x 1.875" L x .25" 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.