HK Item #FB939

"Wabi-sabi"
Bernard Laiwakete, Zuni - Ammonite Bear

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Authentic Native American Bear Fetish Carving of ammonite fossil and Turquoise by Zuni artisan Bernard Laiwakete

materials	ammonite, turquoise, Read about stones
height	1 1/8"
length	1 1/2"
width	3/8"
hallmarks	none
artist	Bernard Laiwakete, Zuni

Bernard Laiwakete's work is featured in Zuni Fetishes and Carvings by Kent McManis.

Authentic Native American Bear Fetish Carving of ammonite fossil and Turquoise by Zuni artisan Bernard Laiwakete

What is Wabi-sabi?

Wabi-sabi is the art of finding beauty in imperfection, of accepting natural growth, decay, and death. It reveres authenticity above all else. Wabi-sabi celebrates cracks and crevices and all the other marks that time, weather, and loving use leave behind. It reminds us that we are all but transient beings on this planet-that our bodies as well as the material world around us are in the process of returning to the dust from which we came.

"Wabi-sabi"
Bernard Laiwakete, Zuni
Bear Fetish Carving
FB939 (ONLY ONE AVAILABLE)

$65 plus s/h

Paula says - "Ancient ammonite fossils are very fragile as is evidenced by the cracks in this piece. It appears to have been fractured when the bear was being carved and the artist stabilized the cracks. Wabi-sabi."

Authentic Native American Bear Fetish Carving of ammonite fossil and Turquoise by Zuni artisan Bernard Laiwakete

Inlaid turquoise eyes and heart line.

See More Bear Carvings

Questions or more details.

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What is a Fetish?

A fetish is a rock carving of an animal that captures the spirit and the essence of the animal, not necessarily its exact detailed conformation. Read more about fetishes.

What is Ammonite?

Ammonite is one of only a few biogenic gemstones (those produced by the life processes of plants or animals); others include amber and pearl. While the vast majority of fossilized ammonite found around the world are found in neutral colors ranging from cream to gray to black, those fossils found at the Korite mine in Alberta, Canada have a fossilized outer shell that’s irridescent or opalized. Korite markets these gems under the trade name ammolite. Commercial mining of ammolite beganIn 1981 and that same year it was given official gemstone status by the World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO).

Feng shui practitioners feel that ammolite promotes the flow of “chi” throughout the body, enhances well-being, and reduces toxins. It is known as the “seven-color prosperity stone" because it can exhibit up to seven colors, each said to bring a certain benefit, such as wealth, wisdom, health, growth, or energy.

Native American Bear Symbolism

Bear is considered the most powerful of all of the animals and is one of the most popular subjects of Native American carvers. Bear is a spiritual guide and represents strength and self-knowledge. Bear has supernatural powers and great healing powers. Bear is a symbol deliberate action, introspection, soul and insight for the past and the future.

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.

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".