"Shaman"

Bear Fetish
HK Item #FB838

bear fetish carving of marble with inlaid kachina and heartline

Materials	marble, mother of pearl, turquoise, Read about stones
Length	2 3/4"
Width	3/4"
Height	1 3/4"
Hallmarks	inscribed: S/M
Artist	unknown

bear fetish carving of marble with inlaid kachina and heartline

Inlaid kachina and heartline of turquoise and mother of pearl.

bear fetish carving of marble with inlaid kachina and heartline

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"Shaman"
Bear Fetish

FB838 - $105 plus s/h
(ONLY ONE AVAILABLE)

Paula says - "In my opinion, this item shows all the design characteristics and workmanship of being Native American made. But because we are unable to attribute the hallmark to a specific artist we can't legally sell it as Native American made - read more."

bear fetish carving of marble with inlaid kachina and heartline

Eyes, mouth and power spots of inlaid turquoise.

bear fetish carving of marble with inlaid kachina and heartline

What is an Animal Fetish?

A fetish is a carving of an animal that captures the spirit and the essence of the animal, not necessarily its exact detailed conformation. Fetishes are carved from many types of stone, wood, antler, shell and other materials. Often the eyes and spots of adornment, called power spots, inset pieces of contrasting stones such as double bear fetish Carving of fishrock and turquoise, jet and coral.
Read more about fetishes.

What Does a Heart Line Represent?

The heart line is a line etched, painted or inlaid along one or both sides of the animal. It usually extends from the mouth to the region of the heart. There are many interpretations as to what a heart line represents, but it is often said to represent the pathway of the breath of the animal to the life force which is the heart. Others feel that the heart line points to the soul of the animal. It is thought that a heart line gives the fetish healing or medicinal power.

Indian Bear Symbolism

Bear is considered the most powerful of all of the animals and is one of the most popular subjects of fetish carvers. Bear is a spiritual guide and represents strength and self-knowledge. He also has supernatural powers, great healing powers. Bear is a symbol deliberate action, introspection, soul and insight for the past and the future. The Bear is the guardian of the West an is one of the animals of the Six Directions.

Zuni Fetishes and Carvings
Types of Fetishes

Fetish Necklace

The use of small carved animals on Native American necklaces is a modern invention for the market. It is not traditional to use a fetish, per se, on a necklace or as jewelry.

Table Fetish

Table fetishes stand on a flat surface for viewing. They come in various scales with the 2-inch scale being the size most commonly sold today.

Pocket Fetish

A fetish can be carried when the power of the animal is desired to help the person with a routine task or an obstacle or problem. Pocket fetishes might help with safe travel, a successful venture or "hunt", a good yield or "crop".