Vessel
ClassificationsFurnishings-Serviceware-vessels
Culture
Zuni
Datec. 1920
Made AtNew Mexico, United States, North America
MediumShell, clay, antler, rawhide, bone, corn pollen and alabaster
Dimensions10 x 12 1/2 in. (25.4 x 31.8 cm)
Object numberF78.33.1
DescriptionZuni Fetish jar. Clay, feathers, bone, antler, turquoise, coral, shell, serpentine, rawhide, chalcedony, and alabasters. Narrow circular base expands to wider central section and narrows again at top of jar. Bound at upper rim with rawhide strips to which four feathered fetishes, one partially missing, are fastened. An antler fetish is fastened to the base of the jar adjacent to the "feeding hole' through which a white alabaster horse fetish stained yellow with corn pollen is fed. Zuni ceremonialism is maintained by six esoteric cults in addition to the Zuni ancestor cult to which all Zunis belong. The fundamental purpose of all Zuni ceremonies is to maintain and promote the harmony of nature and man's oneness with the universe, by which sufficient rainfall, bountiful harvests and a long and prosperous life for the people may be assured. Fetish jars such as this were, and still are, used by a number of Zuni clan societies in a variety of ceremonies. Sometimes they were buried in the ground, thus acounting for the fine patination and incrustation seen on this specimen. Label cc added for 36/86: Ex Collection L. Frank, Taos, New Mexico. Ex Collection Lee Mullican, L.A.On View
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