We have many fetish reference books in the store but the one I reach for first is “Zuni Fetishes and Carvings” by Kent McManis.
There is a first edition (left) and second edition (right)
The first 37 pages are devoted to “The Power of the Fetish” and discuss the symbolism and usage of the various fetishes. The section is organized by animals and human forms: owls, badgers, maidens to mention just a few.
The next 34 pages discuss the various materials the Zuni artists use in carving and decorating their fetishes.
The next few pages discuss the art of carving.
The next 55 pages are devoted to the Zuni carving families telling a brief history of the family. Each family section includes a detailed family tree. There are also examples of pieces made by various members of each family.
The book closes with a brief guide to collecting, indexes and so on. See the slide show below of various buffalo fetish carvings.
This is a valuable book for the Zuni fetish collector.
Paula
Sadly we lost our mentor and friend Kent McManis earlier this year. His passion lives on and he is held in high regard.