Zuni Selenite Bear Fetish by Leland Boone

Early 21st Century
Size: 1.5" H x 2.5" L
From a Private Colorado Collection
Excellent Condition

Leland Boone is a renowned Zuni fetish carver from Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico, part of the esteemed Teddy Weahkee family of artists. Born to Lena Boone, a prominent traditional Zuni fetish carver, and brother to Evalena Boone, Leland grew up immersed in the craft. He began his career as a teenager, initially buffing stones for his mother while in high school. Over time, he honed his skills under her guidance, mastering the delicate art of fetish carving. His aunt, Dinah Gasper, also a noted Zuni artist, further enriched his artistic lineage.

Leland’s work focuses on traditional Zuni fetishes—small carvings of animals like bears, wolves, frogs, and birds, believed to hold spiritual significance. He often collaborates with his wife, Daphne Quam (also spelled Daphne Boone in some sources), creating pieces from materials like selenite, ricolite, lapis lazuli, Murano glass, and bowlerite.