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- Birds - Bats - Eagles - Ducks - Owls - Raven - Crows - Magpie etc
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- 220729-74 Zuni Turquoise Owl Fetish with Baby Owl under Wing by Derrick Kaamasee
220729-74 Zuni Turquoise Owl Fetish with Baby Owl under Wing by Derrick Kaamasee
1 1/2" h
Derrick Kaamasee has made a name for himself in fetish carving by creating highly detailed and imaginative depictions of a wide variety of subjects.
Kaamasee is a Zuni Carver who has been practicing since the late 1980’s. He is known for the fine detail in his work and favors birds and reptiles, which have a sacred significance for the Zuni carvers.
Derrick started carving fetishes as a teenager, working with his uncle. "My first fetish, carved out of green snail shell, was a fish jumping out of the water," says Derrick. "It took a while before I became used to the materials and they began to speak to me." Unlike some carvers, Derrick allows the shape of the raw material to lead the form/ design of the carving. He works in Fossil Walrus Ivory, Fourite, Ricolite and Serpentine, but Amber, Picasso Marble, Pipestone and Antler are his favorite medium
American Indians have used fetishes throughout recorded history. Fetishes are believed to hold magical powers and protect the owner or craftsmen from various problems of mind or body. Some believe that their mystical powers can even protect against problems of the universe. It is also believed that the care a fetish receives is directly proportional to the protection it will provide. Indians believe that fetishes must be properly cared for. They are given offerings of cornmeal and kept in special turquoise encrusted fetish pots or pouches. Often fetishes are adorned with turquoise, arrowheads and feathers. These are offerings to the fetish for gifts received or anticipated.
The owl is the protector of the home and the keeper of the night. He is able to see what others cannot see and is thought to be very observant and perceptive. He is thought to have true wisdom and patience.