Native American Zuni Ram Fetish Carving

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. Although carved from many types of rock, fishrock is traditional. Read more about fetishes.

Heart Line. 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.

SHEEP - Zunis got their first sheep from the Spaniards and sheep have since become a main source of negotiable wealth. Herds are kept on remote parts of the reservation. Herding is an all-year-round occupation and groups of men take turns watching the sheep. Sheep fetish carvings represent charity, patience, gentleness and riches.