Zebradorite Turkey by Loren Tsalabutie

A large muted yellow/golden ocher and gray streaked zebradorite turkey carved by Loren Tsalabutie looking backwards with turquoise inlaid eyes. Loren has incised lines on the wings and back to describe feathers though he has left the bird's face, neck, chest and tail smooth - creating a striking contrast. Of note is the jet tassel inlaid to the center of the turkey's chest. A tassel is a clump of feathers on a male turkey's breast that attracts mates, indicates its age and health and is used to signal dominance. The turkey is honored and hunted in Zuni - celebrated for it's gift of sustenance to the tribe. At the same time, the turkey teaches the Zuni to nurture this food source so that it is sustainable. Zebradorite is a type of feldspar with smoky quartz veins that create a zebra-like pattern - this piece was quarried in Madagascar. The stone brings balance into one's life, connecting mankind to the grounding energy of Mother Earth and the infinite loving energy of the Universe. Artist: Loren Tsalabutie (signed) Size: 1-5/8 in. wide x 3 in. long x 3-1/8 in. tall #62619