Vintage 3-Strand Zuni Bird Fetish Necklace 
171 Hand-Carved Birds – Heishi, Coral, Pipestone – 36” Length
- Sold Winning Bid: $170.00
- 41 Bid(s) View Bid History
- High Bidder: 3dogsandme
| Shipping Options | |
|---|---|
| Pickup | $0.00 |
| FedEx / UPS | $12.00 ($3.00 as additional item) |
Vintage 3-Strand Zuni Bird Fetish Necklace – 171 Hand-Carved Birds – Heishi, Coral, Pipestone – 36” Length
This vintage Zuni bird fetish necklace is a stunning example of traditional Zuni craftsmanship, featuring 171 individually hand-carved bird fetishes, carefully shaped from pipestone and coral, and interwoven with heishi shell beads. Each bird is meticulously crafted, reflecting the artisan's dedication to detail and the spiritual symbolism associated with Zuni fetish carvings. The necklace is strung on durable cotton string, ensuring its longevity while maintaining an authentic, traditional feel.
The bird fetish carvings, deeply rooted in Zuni tradition, symbolize messengers, spirit guides, and protectors. The vibrant coral accents contrast beautifully with the earthy tones of pipestone and heishi beads, creating a striking visual effect. The intricate nature of this piece makes it both a wearable work of art and a historically significant collector’s item.
Time and Effort in Craftsmanship
Each of the 171 birds was individually hand-carved, a process that can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours per bird. Using a conservative estimate of 1.5 hours per bird, the carving process alone would have taken approximately 256 hours (10-11 full days of continuous work). However, given the need for breaks, material preparation, and finishing, the total time investment for this necklace likely spanned several weeks or even months.
Beyond the carving, additional time was dedicated to:
- Handcrafting and shaping the heishi beads
- Sourcing and cutting pipestone and coral materials
- Drilling, stringing, and assembling the necklace for a balanced, flowing design
- Polishing and finishing each piece to achieve a smooth, tactile feel
This extensive labor-intensive process reflects the dedication, patience, and artistry required to complete such an intricate Zuni fetish necklace, making it a true museum-quality piece.
Material
- Heishi Beads – Traditional hand-cut shell beads
- Pipestone – Rich, reddish-brown stone, hand-carved into birds
- Coral – Vibrant red-orange hues, adding striking contrast
- Cotton String – Durable, natural fiber, traditionally hand-strung
Condition
- Good Vintage Condition – Shows expected age-related wear but remains well-preserved. All beads and fetishes are intact, with no visible fraying or structural damage.
Size & Weight
- Length: 36 inches
- Weight: 83.06 grams
- Number of Birds: 171
Additional Notes
This vintage collector’s piece embodies the rich artistic legacy of the Zuni people. The craftsmanship seen in this necklace mirrors that of historical Zuni fetish necklaces displayed in museum collections and prestigious auctions.
With its impeccable artistry, intricate carving, and deep cultural significance, this necklace is a rare find for collectors of authentic Native American jewelry.
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Customer Guarantee
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Please Note:
- Diamond and gemstone weights, colors, and clarity grades are approximate and determined while mounted.
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