Zuni artists Leekya Deyuse and Saul Yueslew were both early carvers of fetishes. Saul Yueslew started carving after World War II & was 96 years old when he passed away in 2009. Leekya Deyuse began carving decades earlier, continuing until his death in 1966. Both men had a unique and recognizable talent, showing here in this beautiful necklace.

The components of the this lovely necklace are Mediterranean branch coral, Santo Domingo heshi, with Saul's 20 bears of Zuni stone, 10 Leekya leafs and 9 carved nodules of natural turquoise. The combination of the soft blue and deep green hues of the turquoise complement the subtle white bears with the deep red of the coral, provides a contrasting intensity to the entire piece! The longest of 3 strands is a loop of 25 inches within which the remaining strands nest, creating a magnificent display. This wonderful necklace came from the Sam and Marguerite Chernoff collection.

Bears range from 1 inch to 1/2 inch in length. Leafs are 3/4 inch to 1/2 inch long. The large center turquoise drop is 1 3/8 inch long by 5/8 inch wide. The necklace back is finished with a very fine braided loop wrap to which a silver hook and eye have been attached.