Step Into the World of Zuni New Mexico

Zuni, NM is a small pueblo located 37 miles south of Gallup, and 11 miles east of the Arizona border. The population was 6,176 as of the 2020 Census. The Zuni Reservation was created by the United States federal government in 1877, and enlarged by a second Executive order in 1883. The Zuni were and are a traditional people who live by irrigated agriculture and raising livestock. Over time, some of the Zuni have farmed less and turned to sheep and cattle herding as a means of economic development. Their success as a desert agricultural economy has been due to careful management and conservation of resources, as well as a complex system of community support. Many contemporary Zuni rely on the sale of traditional arts and crafts including jewelry and fetish carvings. Some Zuni still live in the old-style Pueblos, while others live in modern houses. The location of the pueblo is relatively isolated, but respectful visitors are welcome in the pueblo.

Zuni Fetish Carvings

Perhaps one of the most profitable and remarkable traditions of the Zuni is their miniature carvings known as fetishes. These small, beautifully carved objects are more than just works of art. They are a bridge to the spiritual world, carrying cultural meaning that has been passed down through generations. Each carving is a unique expression of artistry, belief, and the Zuni people’s profound connection to the natural world.

Zuni fetishes trace their roots to the tribe’s emergence and creation stories. According to Zuni, the world has six sacred directions: north, west, south, east, above, and below. Each direction has a guardian animal, called a Prey God, that protects that region.

These animals are considered masters of their domain and offer unique powers.

North: Guarded by the Mountain Lion, (yellow) the elder of all animals.

West: Guarded by the Bear, (blue).

South: Guarded by the Badger, (red).

East: Guarded by the  Wolf, (white).

Heavens (Above): Guarded by the Eagle, (multicolored).

The Underworld (Below): Guarded by the Mole or Shrew, (black).

According to Zuni tradition the carved pieces are mediators that span the human and animal worlds. Additionally, the Zuni believe that these carvings hold animal spirits that offer guidance, protection, and healing. Their observations of the qualities of the behaviors of the animals are quite remarkable if one takes the time to read about them.

The Traditional Purpose for Fetish Carvings

If you think about some of the qualities of the animals listed as guardians, it’s easy to see how they fit into tribal life. When hunting, it would be beneficial to be able to call upon sacred objects of prey during expeditions. They believed animal spirits within would ensure successful hunts. The fetish carvings were kept by designated “Keepers” who performed elaborate ceremonies. It was not uncommon to have hunting rituals with small fetish pots, covered in crushed turquoise with several holes to allow the fetish to enter and exit easily, to be laid facing the animal’s direction (as previously stated).  A Sacred medicine meal of corn meal was sprinkled while prayers were recited. The chosen fetish would then be placed in buckskin and carried over the hunter’s heart. If the hunt was successful, the fetishes were fed with prey blood as gratitude offerings.

A traditional fetish pot covered in crushed turquoise with holes for the spirits of the fetishes to come and go as needed.

This is a small medicine pouch that can be worn over one's heart and carry whatever fetish carving the wearer is attempting to call upon.

Is there a Difference between a Fetish and a Zuni Fetish Carving?

In recent times, the term fetish has taken on an entirely new meaning which is diametrically different than what is meant by a Zuni fetish. This is important since a “google search” of the word fetish will yield significantly different information than searching Zuni Fetish Carving. While the term “Zuni fetishes” is widely used for all carvings, there is a significant distinction between a ceremonial object and a contemporary carving by a Zuni craftsman.

A true Zuni fetish is a sacred object that has been blessed by a Zuni spiritual leader or shaman from the pueblo. These fetish carvings are used during religious ceremonies and are not intended to leave the Zuni pueblo. These are considered active spiritual tools for the carver or the person for whom they were made. The power of these carvings is integral to their purpose, and they are cared for with specific rituals, including ceremonial feedings of cornmeal.

Carved figures that collectors find in shops that are available to tourists are more accurately described as Zuni carvings. These pieces are crafted for individuals who appreciate the skill of the carver but are not looking for anything for ceremonial purposes. They carry the spirit of the Zuni artistic tradition but are not intended for ceremonial use. Many artists prefer the term “carving” to describe the works they sell to honor the sacredness of the true fetish.

The Artistry of Zuni Carvings

Zuni artists are masters of their craft, creating detailed figures entirely by hand. Carvers use a variety of materials and tools, many of which are locally sourced or acquired through trade.

Common materials include:

Serpentine: A local stone found in the Zuni Mountains.

Turquoise: Considered the sacred stone by the Zuni people.

Jasper and other Stones: Marble, pipestone, and travertine are also popular.

Jet often used for color contrast

Coral, often used for color or spiritual significance

Olive or Pen shell used for color and making Heishi

This moose was carved from fossilized ivory.

Organic Materials: Antler, bone, and fossilized ivory add unique character.

Carvers get quite creative when carving these detailed little creatures and some of these carvings have delicate eyes that are made of turquoise, coral or jet inlay. Others may have a heartline and or arrow that starts at the mouth and leads to the heart. This line starts at the mouth where breath gives life, it points to the soul where faith and inner strength can be found. The arrow which is either inlaid in stone or painted is placed on the fetish gives it protection and good luck. Zuni fetishes are not manufactured nor are they produced on demand. Each carving is a handmade work of art.

Bear with heartline

Bear with medicine bundle

Some carvings have a “medicine bundle,” a small offering of beads, arrowheads, or other items tied to the animal’s back. These fetish carvings are considered to have enhanced powers due to the bundle and protected from attack from behind. This addition helps to increase the animal’s power and allows its prayers to be heard more easily.

Cultural Significance Today

Today, some collectors carry a Zuni fetish carving to bring about the qualities of the animal that they carry and help them feel more confident. In essence they are attempting to connect to indigenous wisdom and natural spirituality. Regardless of why someone purchases a Zuni fetish carving, they help connect us to the world around us and help remind us of the wisdom of our indigenous peoples.

Discover Authentic Native American Art

Zuni fetishes carvings are just one example of Native American artistic expression that can be found at Tanner Tradition Native American Art and Jewelry in Ruidoso, NM.