Zuni Horntoad Lizard Fetish by Danette Laate

A fine Mother of Pearl Zuni Fetish

Signed by Danette Laate with the classic Zuni Sunface inlay in coral, jet and turquoise. -

late 20th Century

2.5"

signed "DL"

Fetishes are an important part of Zuni culture. In Zuni culture a fetish represents the animal spirit thought to reside in the stone. The Horned Toad represents longevity and self-reliance. He also represents the conservation of native bounty. He is believed to empower a person or group with self-sufficiency. The horntoad is a powerful medicine animal in Zuni culture. Additionally, in many ancient Zuni stories, he is also an annoyance to the tricky Coyote, hence assisting the Zuni people.