Corn and Feathers Basket Amulet

This amulet draws on designs from Pueblo Indian pottery, elements of Sephardic (Spanish) and "Santa Fe" style found throughout the southwest, and traditional Jewish symbols. The round design is similar to baskets and Pueblo pottery bowls. In the center is the six-petal flower, symbol of the hidden Jews of New Mexico, entwined with a Star of David and surrounded by squash blossoms/ pomegranates, symbols of fertility from the earth.  These in turn are encircled by a band of flowing water, which brings life and abundance to the parched desert.

In opposite corners are the sun, moon and stars of the heavens.   A pair of candlesticks representing the warmth of home and family are in a third corner, and in the final corner is the Hebrew word Shaddai -- -- written twice in the other to amplify its strength. Considered the most complete and powerful name of G-d, this word traditionally carries with it special power to bring safety and protection.

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This amulet draws on designs from Pueblo Indian pottery, elements of Sephardic (Spanish) and "Santa Fe" style found throughout the southwest, and traditional Jewish symbols.

The design is based on the Kiddush prayer said in Jewish homes every Friday night before drinking wine on Shabbat, and at every holiday and celebration where there is wine.  The last phrase of the prayer, a blessing for  “bringing forth the fruits of the vine,”     is in the center, surrounded by overflowing grapevines, the symbol of happiness and joy.

It is framed by spiral posts of a gateway carved in Southwestern style, which is both reminiscent of the Torah ark and represents the mystical threshold that separates the earthly world from the divine.

Two Kiddush cups sit below on a table covered with a tallis prayer shawl, flanking a prayer book inscribed with the word Chai – “Life” – the traditional toast for prosperity and good fortune.    Above are two half-hidden symbols of the Star of David, enclosed by squash blossoms/ pomegranates, symbols of fertility and abundance from the earth, and  eagle feathers, representing the spirit world to Native Americans.

Across the heavens are the sun, moon and stars of the universe, held aloft by a rainbow arc, a powerful symbol for the covenant which spreads a canopy of peace over the mountains, the earth and the homes below.  Together, these symbols bring us thanksgiving for the earth’s bounties, the warmth and joy of family, and the promise of everlasting Peace on Earth.

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