The Quandelacy family is one of the most prolific carving groups in Zuni Pueblo. Ellen Quandelacy (d.) is the Matriarch of siblings Stewart, Faye, Sandra, Andres, Avery, Barlow, Wilmer, Dickie and Georgia Quandelacy and Albenite Yunie. Grandchildren include Leon, Chad, Talia, Stuart, Vickie and Channin Quandelacy and Fonda Lasiloo, Kateri Quandelacy Sanchez, and Brian and Jeffrey Yunie.
This diminutive medicine bear is made from the most common shell material used for carving in Zuni today. Mother-of-pearl has been utilized in jewelrymaking around the world for centuries. It is easy to carve, easy to polish and glimmers with light that dances across its surfaces. One side of the bear is solid gold and the other is irridescent white tinged with gold. The eyes and heartline are inlaid of Sleeping Beauty turquoise and the carving is unsigned which is typical for the carver and the family. Perfect for the pocket!
If you would like to read more about the Bear's characteristics and attributes click here. And click here to hear "Bear" in Shiwi, the language of Zuni.