Native American Navajo Fine Etched Horsehair Wedding Vase with Eagles

The Wedding Vase is an ancient vessel still used in traditional Pueblo wedding ceremonies. Each spout of the vase symbolizes one of the individuals to be wed, while the looped handle signifies the unity achieved through marriage. The space created within the loop represents the circle of life. During the traditional ceremony, the couple drinks nectar (prepared by the medicine man) from the spouts, symbolizing the blending of their lives. This beautifully etched vase, adorned with eagles encircling it, reflects the ancient rite. It is believed that the eagle serves as the messenger between the People and the Great Spirit. ^