Taino Culture 10th to 15th Century AD Stone Zemi Idol - 18 cm

Taíno Stone Zemi Idol – Dominican Republic – 10th to 15th Century AD A finely carved Taíno stone zemi idol from the Dominican Republic, dating to the 10th to 15th Century AD. The figure is represented in the characteristic compact crouching position, with the knees drawn upward and the arms resting across them. The strongly stylized head features large circular eyes, a projecting nose and prominent horizontal lips, while carefully incised lines articulate the hands, feet and facial details. The elongated cranial form and highly schematic treatment of the body are characteristic of Taíno stone sculpture. Zemis (cemís) embodied ancestral beings, deities or supernatural powers and occupied an important place in Taíno religious and ceremonial life throughout the Greater Antilles. The dark green-grey stone has been carefully shaped and polished, while retaining areas of surface wear and mineral variation consistent with the age and character of the object. Material: Stone Culture: Taíno, Dominican Republic Date: 10th to 15th Century AD Dimensions: 18 cm Provenance: Acquired in Germany. From a German private collection assembled before 1980. We guarantee the authenticity of the pieces, backed by the combined experience of our experts spanning more than 40 years. A Certificate of Authenticity (CoA) will be sent digitally by email. This item has been legally acquired in accordance with European law.

Estimate:£627.32

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