It is true that “some things have a life of their own”. So it is with the carvings of Zuni artist Leekya Deyuse! Born from those skilled hands in the 1930’s, this lovely necklace with 63 carved creatures is one-of-a-kind.

First published on page 3 of the Oscar T. Branson’s book, Fetishes and Carvings of the Southwest, we see these very recognizable bears, wolves and birds arranged in a two-strand necklace, with one additional travertine bear. From this form we know it was reconfigured at some point in its life. All components of the current necklace form are correct for the time of the carvings. Their rich hues complement the subtle cream whites and tan pinks of the 28 lightly banded shell birds, 4 bears and 4 wolves. 27 more birds made of very high-grade natural blue green Fox turquoise provide a contrasting intensity that gives life to the entire piece!

The longest strands is a loop of 30 inches within which the remaining strand nests, creating a magnificent display. Bears range from 1 1/4 inches to 1 3/4 inches in length. Wolves’ are 1 3/8 inches to 1 1/2 inches long. The shell pedestal birds are 1 inch to 1 1/2 inches, and their Fox turquoise companions are 1/2 inch to 1 inch in length. The necklace back is finished with a 4 1/4 inch traditional wrap. We offer this work of art that is beautifully strung and highly wearable. This necklace was recently on displayed at the Albuquerque Museum exhibit "The Leekya Family: Master Carvers of Zuni Pueblo".