This beautiful authentic gourd vase shows the traditional images of a bear, a thunderbird and a turtle. These symbols are three of the most often seen images in Native American Indian art. The bear represents power and protection, the thunderbird is seen as a connection to the sky and strength while the turtle is a central figure in the story of creation. Blackfoot artist Stone Akin created this incredible one-of-a-kind gourd vase using a homegrown gourd. This is a beautiful example of traditional Native American Indian gourd work by one of the finest artists working with gourds today. This beautiful genuine handcrafted bowl measures 10 1/2" tall, has a 3" opening and is 6 1/2" wide. Stone grows his own gourds, cleans them and then burns and paints the images all by hand using traditional tools and techniques in honour of his Native American ancestry. These one-of-a-kind items make astonishing home decor items and are beautiful heirloom quality gift items. Signed by the artist.