Books
We consider these volumes to be the best for learning about Zuni fetishes and the cultures that surround them. All books can be ordered directly from Sunshine Studio.
Out of Stock Zuni Fetishes and Carvings by Kent McManis
No serious Zuni fetish collector should be without Kent’s magnificent book, which charts the work of over 700 carvers and shows over 900 Zuni fetishes in full color. Zuni Fetishes and Carvings is the best available reference on the lineage of the Zuni fetish carving families. This edition revises and combines Kent’s previous works (152 pages). ($20)
Spirit in the Stone begins with Part I, "The Role of the Fetish." In this section, the author introduces the importance of the fetish in the Zuni culture, then depicts how the carved animal is integrated into the Southwest Native American culture. In Part II, "The Animals," he provides detailed information on the most common fetish animals, as well as their importance to the Zuni and other Native American tribes. In Part III, "Other Figurines and Objects," Bahti discusses corn maidens, other human figures and miscellaneous objects (such as arrowheads) and how they relate to Southwest Native American cultures. In Part IV, "The Materials," Mark concludes with a highly scientific discussion of the materials used in ancient and contemporary fetishes and animal sculptures. 155 pages. ($16)
Turquoise Unearthed showcases exquisite examples of rough and polished natural turquoise from more than twenty famous "classic" mines including Lander Blue, Number 8, Bisbee, and Lone Mountain. Appealing to rock hounds and serious collectors alike, Turquoise Unearthed is a definitive, contemporary visual guide, 6" x 9", 74 pages, softbound. ($13)
We have a small supply of unused copies of the Arizona Highways January 1974 issue on turquoise and turquoise jewelry. If you do not have a copy, we recommend that you get one. ($19)
Any object that has special meaning can be used as a fetish. In this fascinating, informative, and beautifully illustrated guide to the fetishes of the Zuni people of New Mexico, Hal Zina Bennett explores key principles of Native American spirituality and how early Zuni teachings can benefit us all today. ($20)
When is a fetish not a fetish? Find out in this celebration of the most misunderstood genre of Southwestern Indian carvings. From Beast Gods to Directional Guardian Spirits, this book explores the magic and mystery behind the charismatic, mostly stone, animal figures or fetishes skillfully carved by artists from the Southwestern Pueblos. Enthusiasts will delight in the hundreds of full-color photographs. Pictures and text highlight the impressive variety of forms, materials, and traditional and contemporary styles available to collectors. This book discusses the symbolic meanings associated with these figures and explains how they are "borrowed" for use by members of non-Native American cultures. A price guide is included to help collectors orient themselves to current market values. ($20)
Artist: Kay Whittle
Artist: Kay Whittle
