Native American Navajo Buffalo 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. Read more about fetishes.

BUFFALO MEDICINE - Buffalo ("Tatanka" in Lakota) was the major source of sustenance for indigenous cultures of the plains, giving meat for food, hides for shelter and clothing, and Spirit Medicine. The appearance of Buffalo is a sign that prayers are being heard, that the sacred pipe and Spirit are being honored. Buffalo signals a time of abundance, prosperity and thankfulness.The medicine of Buffalo is prayer, gratitude and praise for that which has been received. Buffalo Medicine is also knowing that abundance is present when all relations are honored as sacred, and when gratitude is expressed to every living part of creation, recognizing the sacredness of every walk of life.

Medicine Bundle - Many fetishes have a medicine bundle, offering bundle, or adornment tied on the back of the animal that consists of coral seed beads, shell heishi, feathers and other stone pieces. The bundle may be used as an offering to the fetish, to evoke the spirit of the fetish or to increase the strength of a fetish.

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.