The wisdom and experience of Elders, especially Grandmothers are highly valued and cherished in Zuni. Like many Pueblo communities, descent is traced through the mother's clan (Matrilineal Systems), emphasizing the central role of women in the family and community structures.
Often Grandmothers are the primary caregivers for children. Instilling values like Patience, Acceptance, Connection through their Daily Interactions & Teachings and above all else, Love.
A hand carved Elk Antler Grandmother fetish carrying twin boys. Her hair is incised, with eyes inlaid of Black Pen Shell, mouth inlaid with Mediterranean Coral and her necklace of Mediterranean Coral, Japanese Angel Skin Coral and Kingman Turquoise.
Her shawl is meticulously carved and intricately designed using Black Jet, Red Pipestone, Lapis and green Serpentine pigment while dozens of tiny inlay of Gold Mother of Pearl, Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, Lapis, Mediterranean Coral, Serpentine and Black Pen Shell add a variety of colors. Burnish fringe detailing.
Her dress is inlaid with Lapis pigment stars and Red Pipe Stone pigment dragonfly motifs while green Serpentine pigment and Black Jet pigment serve as hem embroidery with inlaid Mediterranean Coral.
Her moccasins are detailed with traditional leg wraps and inlaid with Sleeping Beauty Turquoise. The soles are burnished for contrast.
The twin boys have incised hair and are inlaid with Black Jet pigment eyes, Sleeping Beauty Turquoise mouths. Necklaces are inlaid with Mediterranean Coral.
Artist: Troy Sice
Signed: Troy Sice Zuni 2025
About: 4 1/4"T by 2"W by 2"D
Item#1647