Antler Bird, Barred Owl by Troy Sice

An antler carved barred owl - informally called a hoot owl carved by Troy Sice. The owl has circular gold-lip and pen shell inlaid eyes and a dark mother-of-pearl beak. There is a burnished ring all around the owl's face. Pipestone pigment was inlaid to the arc like shapes incised all over the owl's chest. Troy then incised dots on the back of the owl's head. The top of the wings are burnished then incised with arcs - leaving a lovely contrasting cream color. Troy has also burnished the tail and wing tips. The barred owl is often associated with protection by humans. It symbolizes safety from danger and can be viewed as a form of guardian angel. The Zuni believe the owl can see what others can not - they assist in helping to root out deception and they can get to the essence of true wisdom. Artist: Troy Sice (signed) Size: 7/8 in. long x 1/2 in. wide x 1-3/8 in. tall #60944