Bear Fetish: Gabriel Sice

This antler-carved bear fetish recalls the texture and overall aesthetic of Inuit carvings. There is a “bear-ness” to this piece that cannot be denied. It has five dots of turquoise circling the neck as well joined by small dot of coral at the bottom of the neck. Its eyes are set with dots of jet, and the body is polished smooth. The bear sometimes is associated with the westerly (blue) direction and is one of the most important protective animals. It, like some of the other fetishes, has medicinal powers. (JH)