Zuni Pueblo Fetish Necklace By Sarah and Leekya Deyuse

Mid 20th Century

30″

Hand Crafted with One Strand of Zuni Fetishes with twenty-four carved pieces Coral, Mother of Pearl and Turquoise + Nugget Turquoise By Sarah Leekya / Leekya Deyuse

In Very Good Condition

This came with a hand written note saying: “This is work my father Leekya Deyuse – Sarah Leekya” and “4/4/2003 Authenticated as the work of Leekya Deyuse by daughter Sarah. Sedona Wolf M. Leo”. It is our opinion that this is most likely a collaboration piece with most if not all of the fetishes being made by Sarah, possibly with some help by Leekya in his later years. Additionally, some of the leaves and the beads are likely Leekya’s work.

Leekya Deyuse (18891966), often called “Old Man Leekya,” was one of the most renowned and influential Zuni Pueblo fetish carvers and jewelers of the 20th century. Born in Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico, he became famous for his exceptional skill in carving fetish necklacesstrands featuring hand-carved animal figures (fetishes) that represent spiritual guardians or protectors in Zuni tradition.

His necklaces are highly sought after by collectors today, often fetching high prices at auctions, galleries, and online marketplaces like eBay. Leekya’s work helped popularize Zuni fetish carving commercially, especially through his association with trader C.G. Wallace in the 1920s1930s.