Esteban Najera
Zuni Water Serpent- Kolowisi
Item #
Flawless carving of Kolowisi, the "Water Serpent" Hand Carved from antler with jet inlaid eyes and many incising details throughout. This is the Legend of Kolowisi, Water Serpent of Zuni Pueblo: The feathered or horned water serpent is a hero in Zuni because he saved the Zuni people from the flood. When the waters rushed into Zuni Pueblo, the people fled to the top of their sacred mountain, Dowa Yallane (Corn Mountain), to get above the flood. They were dying of thirst and starvation and so said prayers to each of the six directions, asking for rescue. Kolowisi heard their prayers and came from the West direction and rested his jaw on top of Dowa Yallane and regurgitated fresh water, meat and seeds and so saved the Zuni people. When the waters receded Kolowisi did not want to go back to the West and so he now resides in the underground lake in the South where the katsinas live (legend courtesy of KeishI). Order this museum quality carving now and own an important piece of the Zuni culture. Signed EN. 3 5/8" tall (tail)- 1 5/8" long (base)- 7/8" wide (base). 100% money back satisfaction guarantee.
