$1,220.00
Shipping calculated at checkout.
ca. 1930 - 1970
3.25" H x 11.75" L Including Feathers x 5.125" W
Hand Crafted from Antler of Two Water Serpents with Hair, Feathers, Mother of Pearl, Heishi Beads, Shells, One Coral and Three Turquoise Stones with a Red Leather Tongue
In Very Good Condition
Avaynu is a Horned Water Serpent in Zuni Native American mythology—a sacred figure symbolizing water, fertility, rain, and protection, often depicted as a feathered or horned snake-like creature. This motif is commonly carved into Zuni fetishes, which are small sculptural charms believed to embody spiritual powers.
A Double Avaynu features two intertwined or paired Avaynu figures, carved from antler for its natural, lightweight material that evokes organic, ancient qualities.
Zuni fetishes like this are handcrafted by artisans from the Zuni Pueblo in New Mexico, using materials such as antler, stone, shell, or bone. They are not just decorative; traditionally, they hold protective, healing, or guiding energies when "fed" with cornmeal and kept in special pouches. Modern versions are artistic carvings rather than ritually blessed fetishes.
Condition:
Very Good
Tribe:
Zuni
Year Range:
1925 - 1950
Region:
Southwest
Dimensions:
3.25 in11.75 in5.13 in
Category:
Avanyu - Water Serpent
