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Rare Zuni Highly Detailed Carved Fetishes (2)

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:50.00 USD Estimated At:200.00 - 400.00 USD
Rare Zuni Highly Detailed Carved Fetishes (2)
For your consideration are these two Zuni fetishes depicting a badger and an armadillo. Zuni Fetishes were first used as early as 650 A.D. and the fetishes that have been in Zuni tribal possession or in individual possession for centuries are considered to be the most holy and powerful fetishes as well as the more valuable fetishes. The worship of animals is looked upon by the Zuni people and other tribes as a way to relate and connect to the higher more mysterious and remote powers. The Zuni fetishes are carved to represent the animals which the Zuni people feel are the "mediators" between themselves and a higher power. The badger fetish is believed to have knowledge of healing roots and herbs, while the characteristics associated with badgers include tenaciousness, passion, control, persistence and earthiness. The badger is finely carved with great attention to detail and features turquoise stone eyes. The armadillo, because he is reserved, takes his time and does things right. He is keeper of the home and represents variety in a person's inner life. The armadillo’s leathery armor-like hide helps to protect them from predators. This thick skin represents his ability to offer protection from hurts and offenses. The armadillo is slightly smaller than the badger fetish but does not lack on details, as the hardback of the armadillo is finely and precisely carved. The armadillo also features inlays of turquoise stone for its eyes. The badger fetish is unmarked but the armadillo is marked on the bottom of its tail reading, "RX". Both fetishes are in very good condition with no signs of damage. The badger measures 2 1/8" L x 1" W x 5/8" H. The armadillo measures 1 1/2" L x 5/8" W x 5/8" H.