When unusual fetishes come in that are waaaay outside the traditional box I always wonder what inspired the carver. Usually it's whatever was on the Discovery channel that week. But in this case, I think it was breakfast. I think Fitz was sitting there, on a Saturday morning, sleepily enjoying some Froot Loops with the kids when --SHAZAM!-- he was inspired to carve Sam the Toucan!

I loved the first Toucan we got so much I ordered a few more. This one is the last and I think he's the largest at 3 5/8" long. He has an inlaid tail of Mother-of-pearl and that gorgeous beak inlaid of Mojave turquoise, pipestone, turquoise and white shell. So colorful and fun. Just like breakfast with the kids on a Saturday morning. Signed.

Birds are highly significant to the Zuni and their feathers are used ceremonially in prayer stick at various times of the year. Only native species would be used in this manner though other species like macaw, peacock (or even maybe a toucan!) might be used on dance masks or other costume items.