Zuni Coral Cardinal Bird Fetish Necklace & Earrings Set, c.1960s–1970s View Watchlist >
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Lot # HJ115
System ID # 23890906
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Zuni Coral Cardinal Bird Fetish Necklace & Earrings Set, c.1960s–1970s
A museum-quality Zuni three-strand fetish necklace with matching earrings, dating to the 1960s–1970s. This exceptional set features 98 hand-carved coral birds, most likely representing cardinals, each carefully detailed with defined beaks, wings, and tails. The carving quality and fine natural coral exemplify the superior artistry associated with the Leekya–Tsikewa circle of master Zuni carvers.
The strands are strung on cotton with cylindrical coral spacer beads and terminate in hand-wrought sterling silver cones, each bearing a mark, integral to the necklace’s construction and design. The matching earrings suspend single coral birds from sterling silver fish hook wires, harmonizing perfectly with the necklace. Offered as a complete set, this work stands as a superb example of mid-20th-century Zuni fetish artistry.
Bird fetishes in Zuni tradition carry deep cultural meaning, symbolizing freedom, prayer carriers, and messengers to the spirit world. The choice of the cardinal form, rendered here in vibrant natural coral, enhances both the visual and symbolic resonance of the piece.
Details
- Origin: Zuni Pueblo, Southwest
- Date: c.1960s–1970s
- Likely Attribution: Leekya–Tsikewa carving tradition
- Material: Natural red Mediterranean coral, fine quality
- Birds: 98 hand-carved coral birds (cardinal motif)
- Largest bird: approx. 25.65 × 3.51 × 4.12 mm
- Smallest bird: approx. 13.68 × 5.88 × 3.29 mm
- Strands: 3, accented with cylindrical coral spacer beads (approx. 2.8 mm diameter, 4.5 mm average length)
- Cones: Hand-wrought sterling silver cones with hallmark, integral to design
- Earrings: Sterling silver fish hook style, each with carved coral bird
- Workmanship: Superior hand-carving, traditional Zuni fetish style, strung on cotton
- Provenance: From a fine collection of New Mexico Native American jewelry
Dimensions & Specifications
- Necklace length: Approx. 23 in (58.4 cm)
- Necklace weight: 54.47 g (1.92 oz)
- Earring length: Approx. 1.1 in (2.8 cm) including hooks
- Earring weight: 1.35 g overall (0.05 oz)
Condition
Excellent condition, with natural surface inclusions and slight irregularities consistent with coral as an organic material. Strands secure; earrings intact and wearable.
Conclusion
An outstanding Zuni coral bird fetish necklace and earrings set, crafted in the 1960s–1970s with masterful carving and superior materials. Offered as a complete set, this piece embodies the cultural depth and artistic excellence of Zuni fetish traditions—an exceptional acquisition for the discerning collector.
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