To the Zuni Indian, there are six cardinal directions. Each of the animals has a different power, and the choice of animal depends on the purpose for which the fetish is intended. For example, a hunter in quest of a deer would use a mountain lion fetish as the deer is the natural prey of the mountain lion. Fetishism can be extremely complicated - each animal can have six varieties of colors representing alternate powers. For more information, we suggest you purchase one or more of our Zuni Fetish Books Available for sale .
All Southwestern tribes have fetishes in their traditions.
The Zunis have been the most prolific and successful carvers of fetishes for sale to the public in recent years. But Navajos have carried small fetishes in pocket bags for hundreds of years. And Cochiti fetishes are among the most valuable of all. The most collectible pieces are those of the best quality available. Most people know that among the Zunis are some of the finest carvers.