Z Bear-Dancing
Zuni Fetish Carving
Claudia Peina (Kallestewa)
Antler, Jet, Coral, & Turquoise
Happy Bear on Left Leg
Large

Claudia Peina (Kallestewa).  Zuni Fetish Carver. 

Wow, this is a large bear.  It features the same hallmarks as her smaller bears, the scale is larger.  I photographed this standing on its left leg, it is just as stable on its right leg.

The comparison photo shows this bear (the smaller of the two) and one I have yet to post, that one is supersized!

Claudia is best known for her Corn Maidens, happy or dancing Bears, and Frogs. She is the (elder) half sister of famed carver Troy Sice.

Bears are among the most important animals to all Native Americans and have a special place in the Zuni fetish tradition.  Both physically and spiritually, they are considered very powerful. The Zuni name for bear is "clumsy foot" most likely due to their somewhat odd gait.  If you have ever been around a bear you know they are neither clumsy or slow.

Signed:  CP  Z

Depth: 7/8"

Width:  4-3/4"

Height (standing on left leg):  5-1/2"

Weight: 3.1oz/88gr/0.114lbs

P101418