“Feathered Friends” (Cardinals) 8cm Hand Painted Glass Ornament Designed by Artist Jessica Somers

“Feathered Friends” (Cardinals)

8cm Hand Painted Glass Ornament

Designed by Artist Jessica Somers

Authentic Indigenous Art
Artist: Jessica Somers
Cultural Background: Odanak Abenaki, Ontario

In many Indigenous cultures, “feathered friends” (birds in general) are considered spiritual messengers who bridge the natural and spirit worlds. The cardinal, specifically, holds various positive meanings across different tribes, often symbolizing devotion, good fortune, and messages from the spirit realm or ancestors.

Specific meanings vary by tribe:

General/Southeastern Tribes: Cardinals are widely considered good omens. Many believe they carry messages from loved ones who have passed away, providing comfort, hope, and guidance to those who are grieving.
Cherokee: The cardinal is often associated with the sun, with one myth describing the first female redbird as the daughter of the sun. Some traditionalists also believed they could predict the weather. A highly revered Cherokee leader, Redbird Smith, was named after the bird.
Choctaw: The Choctaw people have a story that portrays the cardinal as a matchmaker, bringing lonely people together into a loving relationship.
Ojibway: The Ojibwe admire the cardinal as an alert, watchful bird.
Pueblo: Some Pueblo tribes view the cardinal as a directional guardian, typically associated with the south.
Aikimel O’odham (Pima): They associate cardinals with lightning and believe they can predict rain.

Across these diverse interpretations, common themes include:

Spiritual Messengers: Birds are generally seen as a connection point between the physical and spiritual worlds, carrying prayers and messages to the Creator or ancestors.
Devotion and Relationships: Cardinals are known for their monogamous nature, often seen as symbols of strong family ties, loyalty, and enduring love.
Hope and Vitality: The vibrant red color is often associated with the fire element, symbolizing warmth, life force, vitality, and the promise of new beginnings or strength during difficult times.

The term “feathered friends” is a general, affectionate way to refer to birds, and in Indigenous cultures, the presence of these creatures is often seen as a significant and meaningful natural sign.

These glass ornaments are hand painted and are based on the artist’s original authentic indigenous art.
They are 8 cm (3.15 in) in diameter and come in a box showcasing the image.
Individually boxed for protection.
The artist’s biography on the back of the box.
The indigenous artist’s name, tribal affiliation, and title of the design appear on the box.

Artist Jessica Somers beautiful artwork can be found in many products, such as Art Cards, Art Prints, Mugs, Journals, Bags and more!

AUTHENTIC INDIGENOUS PRODUCT:

The artist or copyright holder has been paid a royalty for the sale of this product.

MATERIALS:

Glass, Paint, Metal

DIMENSIONS:

Item Size: 8 x 8 x 8 cm (3.15 x 3.15 x 3.15 in)
Item Weight: 80g
Box Size: 10 x 9.5 x 10.5 cm
Box Weight: 96g

DELIVERY:

Items in stock will be shipped as soon as possible
Backordered Items may take 3 – 4 weeks to ship out

Designed in Canada

For more information about Indigenous Artist Jessica Somers

A Great way to display support for Indigenous Art!