Picasso Jasper Buffalo Fetish 1.75 Inch

Price :

$42.00

A 1.75-inch buffalo fetish carved from Picasso jasper, showing natural gray, black, and red patterning with smooth polished detail.

In stock

Description

This 1.75-inch buffalo fetish is carved from natural Picasso jasper, a multicolored stone recognized for its brush-stroke patterns and earthy palette. Artisans shape each figure to capture the buffalo’s strong profile—arched back, squared shoulders, and grounded stance.

The polish reveals intricate networks of dark lines, soft grays, and muted reds that flow across the stone, giving every carving a one-of-a-kind appearance.


Geological Background

Picasso jasper is a patterned form of metamorphosed limestone rich in silicates and iron oxides. Its distinctive streaks and intersecting lines form as mineral-bearing fluids move through fractures during metamorphism, creating the “painted” effect associated with this stone.

The contrasting colors—charcoal, cream, ochre, and red—reflect small variations in mineral content and oxidation during formation.


Scientific Classification

Property Value
Rock Type Metamorphosed Limestone (Jasperiform)
Primary Components Silica, iron oxides, carbonates
Color Origin Hematite, magnetite, and other iron minerals
Mohs Hardness ~6 – 7
Locality Commonly sourced from the western United States

History & Cultural Context

The buffalo fetish holds deep meaning in many Indigenous traditions across North America. While interpretations vary culturally, the buffalo commonly represents endurance, provision, and resilience—qualities inspired by the animal’s historical importance to survival on the plains.

In decorative arts and carving traditions, the buffalo is admired for its strong, iconic silhouette and symbolic weight. Picasso jasper, with its graphic stone patterns, brings additional visual energy to the figure.


Symbolism & Design Interpretation

This carving naturally conveys:

  • Strength and stability, expressed through the buffalo form

  • Earth-inspired artistry, seen in Picasso jasper’s flowing lines

  • Grounded presence, enhanced by the stone’s weight and solid posture

It is a meaningful addition to collections of animal fetishes, natural stone carvings, and patterned mineral display pieces.


Aesthetic & Collector Evaluation

At 1.75 inches, this buffalo has enough size to showcase the stone’s dramatic patterning while remaining compact for shelves or display trays. Each carving differs based on natural stone veining, making every piece visually distinct.


Care & Handling

Clean with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid abrasive surfaces or harsh chemicals. Store separately from harder minerals to protect the polish.

Additional information

Weight 4 oz
Dimensions 2.5 × .75 × 1.75 in