Indigenous Seminole Peoples revere black panthers as powerful spirits who first walked the earth. Their medicine men are associated with the Panther Clan. Central and South American Indigenous cultures also highly regard panthers as symbols of life and the healing power of nature. Truly inspiring creatures, they are large felines blessed with strong flexible bodies, long balancing tails, sharp teeth and mighty claws which make them stealthy hunters. Nelson Yatsattie's well-polished black marble panther (or Mountain-lion) patiently waits for the right moment to act. Focused eyes are from turquoise inlays, while whiskers and paws are sgraffito-etched. A magnificent tail conveys wonderful movement. About 5 5/8" long, 1 1/8" wide and 1 3/8" tall.