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Here's a terrific, red pipestone turtle fetish that we picked up on the Zuni Pueblo in New Mexico.
The fetish was handmade by the well known fetish carver Russell Shack. As with most Zuni made fetishes the carvings are amazingly detailed. Russell also inlaid small pieces of turquoise as the frog's eyes, as well as decorations on it's back.
It is 2 and 3/4 inches in length from front to back and 2 and 1/2 inches across from side to side. It stands 3/4 inches tall and weighs 66 grams. The bottom of the fetish has Russell's hallmark carved into it. Among other things, the turtle is the oldest symbol of Mother Earth, and longevity.
We've been told by a few of our Las Vegas friends that some of the local card players are using fetishes as card protectors, so think of what a great gift this might be for the poker player in your life!
What is a fetish?
A fetish is an object which is believed to have magic power. Fetishes may be of any form or material, but they all have one purpose - to assist man against any real or potential problems. The problems can be those of the mind, body or universe. They are all considered to be "lucky".
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