Dancing Bear Fetish
by Claudia Peña, Zuni Pueblo
turquoise, Mediterranean coral inlays
2.25” high x 1.5” wide x .25” deep
Over the years, Zuni Pueblo carver Claudia Peina has created numerous unique images – warrior maiden, ‘Hopi’ maiden, olla maidens, grinding woman, bread maker, bow priest, corn maidens and even haloed angels. She is also well-known for her variety of bears.
Claudia’s images exhibit happiness, freedom and carefreeness – all a reflection of her own personality and the love for her Zuni tribe.
Mentors include maternal grandfather George Haloo Chee Chee, maternal aunt Rosalia Quam, uncles Miguel and Ramie Haloo, and her beloved deceased brother and original carving partner, Colvin Peina.
When new ideas for carvings are offered to her, Claudia will spend a few moments in silence and then announces “yes, I will give it a try!” She always succeeds, and another innovative design by this most creative Zuni fetish carver is born.
