Kwan-de-lacy

The polished ivory glows softly, its warm, pale tones accentuating the delicate curves of her flowing form and the gentle lines of her attire. Each face is set with small black eyes that give the maiden a watchful, serene expression, adding depth and presence to the carving. On her chest, a single inlaid turquoise dot gleams vividly against the ivory on one side and coral on the other, serving as a symbolic focal point of spirit or vitality. The combination of the ivory’s luminous elegance, the striking turquoise, and the subtle contrast of the black eyes creates a piece that feels timeless, refined, and imbued with quiet strength.

Corn Maiden (A:dow e:washdok'i): In the Zuni Pueblo the three stages of woman are recognized as:

• Maiden, symbolizing potential
• Mother, the life giver
• Grandmother, the wise elder

Usually the maiden fetish will be emerging from corn (the corn maiden) or she will have whorls of hair on the side of her head, signifying that she has not had a child. The mother fetish also can be emerging from the corn (the corn mother) and she will have children with her or look pregnant. The grandmother usually has a shawl over her head and no corn represented on her body.

Dimensions: Length: 1/2" X Width: 1/2" X Height: 1 1/2" Donated by D. Culpepper