Zuni Fetish - Small Smiling Turtle - Antler - Claudia Peina

This Zuni turtle fetish was carved from Elk Antler by well known carver Claudia Peina. It measures about 1-1/2 inch long by 1-1/4 inch wide and weighs 6 grams. This turtle is carved from Elk antler with accents of turquoise & black jet.

Claudia Peina is a third generation carver from Zuni, the grand daughter of George Chee Chee. Her aunt, Rosalie Quam was her first teacher and she also learned carving from her brother Colvin Peina. She has mastered the art of carving elk antler, although she has used moose, deer and reindeer as well. Her addition of stone inlay into the antler and buffing techniques create breathtaking designs and beautifully finished products. She is also known for her whimsical bear carvings - standing, walking, even dancing and singing ones, as well as rabbits, frogs, & turtles. She is featured in many Zuni Fetish reference books including The Fetish Carvers of Zuni by Marian Rodee & James Ostler.

Note: Much of the information posted here on Claudia Peina was taken from an article by Harold Finkelstein, author and one of our Zuni fetish carver suppliers.