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About Zuni Fetishes /American Indian Art |
- Collecting American Indian Art
- Zuni Fetish Background Information
- Zuni Fetish Meanings
- Zuni Fetish FAQ's
Collecting American Indian Art
American Indian art, in all forms, has never been more alive and dynamic. It
continues to be one of the most gratifying and exciting forms to collect.
American Indian art combines age-old tradition, innovation and talent. It
results in wide varieties of art for all levels of collecting, irrespective of
whether you are beginning with a first-time purchase or have been collecting for
a number of years. Whichever you do, it is gratifying to know that it helps to
continue of the expression and livelihood of American Indian artisans and the
preservation of this country's only indigenous art.
These products, many influenced by centuries of history, combine an intrinsic
spirit with timeless appeal. The interest in and appreciation of the artistry of
American Indians has, unfortunately resulted in misrepresentations and imports
in the marketplace. The popularity has also brought in merchandise that is
legitimately represented as "American Indian Inspired". This should not be
confused with authentic handmade American Indian arts and crafts. It is
important to understand that when you purchase the genuine product, you help to
preserve the integrity and commitment of today's artists.
Background on Fetishes
| A fetish is a Native American carving believed to have special
power. Many Native American tribes create and use fetishes of which the
most renowned fetish carvers are the Zuni tribe, who call themselves
Asiwi (Ah-she-wee). A Zuni fetish, or wemawe, is a carved object
of an animal or revered god. Zuni fetishes have been used for many purposes: to enable hunters to catch game, to make game more plentiful, and also for curing ceremonies. Fetishes may protect individuals as well as the community. The Zuni believe that animals are more like the deities and have more power than man. The Zuni also believe that both practical and spiritual power reside in their fetishes.
Horn and antler fetishes are powerful and highly valued because they once were part of a living animal. They are associated with sea serpents, whose power is considered greater than the beast gods. |
Zuni Fetish Meanings
| Fetish | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Armadillo | Slow, Sure, Gets things right. Keeper of the home |
| Badger | Aggressiveness, Perseverance, the ability to reach a desired goal |
| Bat | Guardian of the night, cleaner |
| Bear | Strength, Introspection, spiritual journey though life. The white bear is medicine. |
| Beaver | Builder, hardworking, power of working and attaining a sense of achievement |
| Bobcat | Knows secrets, clairvoyance ability |
| Buffalo | Endurance to overcome, great emotional courage provider to all |
| Butterfly | The art of transformation, the ability to know or to change the mind |
| Coyote | Laughter, humor and foolishness, the master trickster who tricks himself |
| Crow | Keeper of sacred law |
| Deer | Gentleness |
| Dog | true friend, loyal |
| Dolphin | spirit of friendship, trust, loyalty |
| Duck | spirits of those who passed on |
| Eagle | a connection with the divine, a soaring spirit that transcends Personal problems, creator, teacher, great integrity |
| Elk | Teaches that pacing yourself will increase your stamina |
| Fish | Ability to hide emotions, purifier |
| Fox | Camouflage, protection |
| Frog | Bringer of rain, abundance, and fertility |
| Hawk | messenger of the gods |
| Horned Toad | Longevity, self-reliance |
| Horse | possesses healing powers, swiftness, strength |
| Hummingbird | messenger, stopper of time |
| Lizard | conversation, agility |
| Mole | Keeper of the underground and crops |
| Moose | headstrong, unstoppable, longevity |
| Mountain Lion | leadership, resourcefulness |
| Mouse | paying attention to detail, scrutiny |
| Otter | Laughter, curiosity, mischievous Women medicine, the balanced female side |
| Owl | Can see what others canžt, essence of true wisdom. Protector of the home. |
| Parrot | symbolic to the sun, as rainbows are the product of rain and sunlight |
| Porcupine | the power of faith and trust |
| Quail | sacred spirit, ceremonial, holy |
| Rabbit | The special guardian of women in child birth, also associated with safe birth and long life for children |
| Raccoon | Bandit, shy, resourceful |
| Ram | sense of self worth, |
| Raven | Magic, the messenger of the great mystery, a change in consciousness |
| Seal | family oriented, possesses power in numbers |
| Skunk | vary, conspicuous, intense |
| Snake | life, death, rebirth |
| Spider | creative patterns of life |
| Squirrel | natural intelligence, saver, protects reserves |
| Turkey | smart, elusive, festive |
| Turtle | oldest symbol of Mother Earth, longevity |
| Wolf | Teacher, pathfinder, sharing of your knowledge, never ending journey |
Fetish FAQ'S
1. Where do Indian artisans get materials such as lapis? That's not traditional is it?
Today, artisans are using many materials that may or may not be indigenous to their area. Historically, a variety of materials such as shells were exchanged among tribes. With the arrival of Europeans, trade began for other materials such as beads, silver, and gold.
Today many Native Americans seek out a variety of things to achieve their personal expression of art. These may be purchased from gem/supply stores or through traders whom they find to be reliable sources. It is the evolution of this art form that is one of the exciting aspects of buying American Indian arts and crafts.
2. Which form of these handmade products is my best investment?
When you are buying American Indian arts and crafts you really are buying pieces of art. Therefore, your personal taste and budget will guide you to the right choice. Though it is true that many pieces have appreciated in value across time, first and foremost, you should buy the piece because you like it.
Today, there is good quality work being done today by many artisans, in different media, styles and price ranges. Collecting art by America's Native artisans is a very personal and exiting for many reasons. For those who choose to own the grace and beauty of their products, collecting them will be a rewarding experience.
3. What Is "Authentic"? Is There a Law That Protects Me?
Under the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990 (P. L. 101-644), all products must be marketed truthfully regarding the heritage and tribal affiliation of the artist or craftsperson. The law prohibits misrepresentation of Indian arts and crafts within the United States. It covers all arts and crafts produced after 1935 and is a truth-in-advertising law. Under the act, "Indian" is defined as a person who
1.) is an enrolled member of a State or Federally recognized Tribe, or
2.) has been certified as an Indian artisan by a governing body of an Indian Tribe.