Lorindina Sheche / Kucate - Zuni Fetish of the Bow Priest

Description

Aaron & Thelma Sheche

Thelma Sheche’s father, Theodore Kucate, in the 1880’s made the fetishes that Frank Cushing used in his notes to the Smithsonian.  The Sheche fetishes carved today are remarkably similar and as true to Zuni tradition as possible.

Aaron and Thelma are represented in the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C.

Sadly Aaron Sheche passed away and Thelma is retired.  We have a few original Aaron and Thelma fetishes for sale.  In addition, we are offering a very rare, authentic  Kucate  Mountain Lion fetish carving

Lorindina Sheche, Thelma’s daughter and her son Aaron Jr, carry on the Kucate carving tradition.  Sometimes, Thelma’s grandaughter Marnella Kucate carves these fetishes as well.

Last photograph of Aaron Sheche with Thelma Circa 2003

Thelma is an outgoing and charming lady.  Aaron was a quiet and serious man / artist.  Most of the Aaron and Thelma fetishes seen today were carved by Aaron. Thelma helped with the detail work and polishing.

I  always admired Thelma Sheche’s arrowheads. They seem to be maidens.

Thelma Sheche (in the 1950’s) started a Zuni dance troupe that traveled the world. Zuni women danced with beautiful pots on their heads to ancient chants.

Thelma is a mentor, always eager to lend a helping hand.

Thelma and Aaron are deeply religious and spiritual people  who believe in the old ways.  It does not take long to understand that to Thelma and Aaron the old ways, are love and understanding and compassion for all who share this world. 

These values were passed to her and she passes them on to others.

These ideas are clearly seen in their art. While Thelma and Aaron will no longer be carving they have left a legacy that will be with us forever.

<><><>

Thelma, Aaron and Lorindina Sheche - are the family of the original Kucate who carved for
Frank Cushing

The Zuni Fetish Bow Priest seen below was carved after Aaron's death.  Probably by Lorindina with some work by Thelma. Thelma no longer carves at all.

The Bow Priest is the fetish of the Bow Priest Society... the Zuni Hunter Warrior Society.

This is a large carving.  It measure about 5" long and about 5 1/2" around. It will more than fill your hand.

It is carved from white, crystal marble.

The Coral and Turquoise are natural, not treated, gem quality.

The arrowhead is handmade, Picasso Marble.