Zuni Pueblo Large Antler Double Avaynu Fetish

ca. 1930 – 1970

3.25″ H x 11.75″ L Including Feathers x 5.125″ W

Hand Crafted from Antler of Two Water Serpents with Hair, Feathers, Mother of Pearl, Heishi Beads, Shells, One Coral and Three Turquoise Stones with a Red Leather Tongue

In Very Good Condition

Avaynu is a Horned Water Serpent in Zuni Native American mythologya sacred figure symbolizing water, fertility, rain, and protection, often depicted as a feathered or horned snake-like creature. This motif is commonly carved into Zuni fetishes, which are small sculptural charms believed to embody spiritual powers.

A Double Avaynu features two intertwined or paired Avaynu figures, carved from antler for its natural, lightweight material that evokes organic, ancient qualities.

Zuni fetishes like this are handcrafted by artisans from the Zuni Pueblo in New Mexico, using materials such as antler, stone, shell, or bone. They are not just decorative; traditionally, they hold protective, healing, or guiding energies when “fed” with cornmeal and kept in special pouches. Modern versions are artistic carvings rather than ritually blessed fetishes.