OTHER FETICHES.
FETICHES OF NAVAJO ORIGIN.
THE PONY.
Among other specimens in the collection to which these notes relate are several pieces representing the horse and domesticated sheep, of which Plate IX, Figs. 3 and 4, are the best examples. Both are of Navajo importation, by which tribe they are much prized and used. The original of Fig. 3 represents a saddled pony, and has been carefully carved from a small block of compact white limestone veined like Italian marble. This kind of fetich, according to the Zuñis, is manufactured at will by privileged members of the Navajo nation, and carried about during hunting and war excursions in "medicine bags," to insure the strength, safety, and endurance of the animals they represent.
THE SHEEP.
Plate IX, Fig. 4, represents a superb large sheep fetich of purplish-pink fluorspar, the eyes being inlaid with small turkoises. Such are either carried about by the shepherds or kept in their huts, and, together with certain ceremonials, are supposed not only to secure fecundity of the flocks, but also to guard them against disease, the animals of prey, or death by accident.
AMULETS AND CHARMS.
In addition to the animal fetiches heretofore described, many others are found among the Zuñis as implements of their worship, and as amulets or charms for a variety of purposes. The painted and plumed prayer-sticks are of this character.
