Jobeth Maize Signed Large Zuni Bear Sculpture 9" Indigenous American Art

A large, impressive Zuni bear sculpture by celebrated Native American artist Jobeth Maize — a significant and collectible piece of Indigenous American art. Jobeth Maize is known for her masterful Zuni fetish work, and this oversized bear makes a powerful statement piece. Ethically sourced from a Central Coast California estate sale.

The Sacred Zuni Fetish Bear

Among the Zuni Pueblo people of western New Mexico, fetish carvings have been central to spiritual life for over a thousand years. These figures — known as wemawe — are believed to house the living spirit of the animal they depict, serving as intermediaries between the human world and the spiritual realm. The bear holds the highest place of honor in the Zuni fetish tradition — guardian of the West, symbol of healing, strength, and introspection, and the most powerful ally a medicine man could carry. A large-format bear sculpture carries that same spiritual weight in amplified form, commanding presence and reverence in any space it occupies.

About Jobeth Maize

Jobeth Maize is a respected Native American artist working at the intersection of Zuni and Navajo artistic traditions. Her fetish sculptures are known for their expressive form, careful attention to spiritual symbolism, and exceptional craftsmanship — each piece a handcrafted original reflecting both personal artistry and deep cultural heritage. Signed works by Jobeth Maize are collected by serious enthusiasts of Indigenous American art and Southwest craft.

Details

• Artist: Jobeth Maize (signed)
• Style: Zuni Bear / Indigenous Art
• Measurements: 9 inches long by 7.25 inches tall

Condition

Great condition. Please review all high-resolution photos carefully as they form part of the condition description.

Comparable Market Value

$325 — based on recent auction and gallery sales for signed large-format Zuni bear works by Jobeth Maize and comparable Indigenous artists.