O-tho-lee

The ivory marble gives the bison a smooth, luminous surface, its creamy white and pale beige tones evoking purity and timelessness. The stone’s polish catches light gently, highlighting the powerful hump, broad shoulders, and thick, sturdy legs that give the bison its iconic, grounded silhouette. The lapis lazuli eyes are deep blue—small yet intensely vivid against the pale marble. These eyes give the bison an otherworldly gaze: wise, ancient, and calm. Set into the soft ivory face, they seem to glow with the sky’s reflection, evoking a connection to the heavens, spirit, and vision. The lapis horns, curved and strong, are a striking feature—cool, polished blue sweeping back from the head like celestial crescents. 

Buffalo (Si:wolo) is especially important to the Plains Indians. These magnificent animals were the basis of their lifeway before they were hunted to extinction by the white man. While not a traditional fetish subject for the Zunis, all animals have meaning and Bison reminds us of abundance and prayer.  

Dimensions: Length: 2 3/4" X Width: 3/4" X Height: 1 1/2" Donated