Ray Tsalate

Ray’s carvings are among the finest in Zuni. Ray began fetish carving in 2004. 
He began as an apprentice to Troy Sice… Ray and Troy work together still. While there 
is a wonderful similarity to their art… each carver’s fetishes are clearly their own.

Link to Troy Sice Bear and Corn Maiden Carvings

Early in Ray’s career he received a fellowship from the Wheelwright.. which Ray
 credits with helping him move his art forward. Ray’s gemstone Inlay is excellent. 
It is consistent with that of the finest Southwest jewelry.

Ray favors uses natural gemstones.  Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, Deep Red Coral, Lapis, 
Denim Lapis and Shell are often used. This is magnificent work by any standard.

Ray Tsalate 2011 Museum of Northern Arizona Collection

This Large Antler and Turquoise Frog with Fish won 1st Place at the 2011 
Museum of Northern Arizona Zuni Arts and Crafts Show

Large Antler and Turquoise Frog with Gold Fish

The frog measures 4 1/4″ x 3 3/4″

The fish is 2″ x 1 1/8″

All natural turquoise

$1250

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Ray Tsalate 
2011 Museum of Northern Arizona Collection

a small antler carving of a young girl with her hair in Hopi Whirls

it is perfectly inlaid with gem Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, Deep Red Coral 
and Penn Shell

2 3/8″ tall

$315

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Ray Tsalate 
2011 Museum of Northern Arizona Collection

a small antler grandmother carving

it is perfectly inlaid with gem Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, Deep Red Coral, Lapis and Penn Shell

Inlay this good is very difficult… it is rarely seen on fetishes. 
It is scarcely seen even on fine jewelry 

2 1/2″ tall

$345

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Ray Tsalate 
2011 Museum of Northern Arizona Collection

Large Antler carving of a Maiden wearing a Rain Sash

Prosperity and Long Life

It is perfectly inlaid with natural, gem quality Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, 
Deep Red Coral, Malachite and Mother of Pearl

Inlay this good is very difficult… it is rarely seen on fetishes. 
It is scarcely seen even on fine jewelry 

5″ tall

$875

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