Zuni Pueblo Dancing Antler Bear Fetish By Claudia Peina

Late 20th Century

1.875" H x .875" L x 1.9375" W

Hand Carved from Antler of a Singing and Dancing Bear with Three Coral Three Turquoise and Two Jet Eyes Signed Ft. N

In Very Good Condition

Claudia Peina (also referred to as Claudia Peina Kallestewa) is a well-known Zuni Pueblo fetish carver from Zuni, New Mexico. She specializes in whimsical, highly detailed carvings—especially smiling, dancing, or “Good News” bears and corn maidens—primarily from elk or deer antler (shed antler), often with turquoise, coral, jet, and other stone inlays. She is part of a family of carvers (including connections to Troy and Gabe Sice) and learned antler bear carving from her late brother, Colvin Peina. Her work is noted for expressive faces, playful poses (bears balancing on one leg as if dancing or singing), fine incised details, and a sense of joy and movement.