Such a pretty, traditional bear carving by Donovan Laiwakete! He's made from black marble and has an inlaid heartline on the right side of the bear. The eyes are inlaid of turquoise and the offering is a turquoise "arrowhead" tied on with small nuggets of red coral and turquoise.

Donovan is just one of the Laiwakete brothers (Rodney, Bernard, Tony and Fernando) and each one has developed a certain style. We've always enjoyed their work. Though this bear is simple, it's well done and has a nice polish to it. Sometimes simple is best ...

BEAR: The bear represents the western direction in a protective and healing fetish set. He is associated with the color blue and known for his curative powers. Though all bears are healers, white bears are particularly powerful. Characteristics associated with bears include strength, courage, adaptability, healing and spiritual communion.

Click here to hear "bear" in Shiwi, - the Zuni Language.