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LOT 2419
Pre-Columbian Stone Taino Transforming Zemi Figure
CIRCA 1500 A.D. OR LATER
13 1/2 in. (6 kg total, 34.3 cm high including stand).
Large carved hardstone model of a crouching figure with elbows resting on the knees and hands supporting the chin; the head modelled as a skull with exposed teeth, drilled eye-sockets and triangular nasal cavity; mounted on a custom-made display stand. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000.
From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.
For a smaller figure in similar pose see The Met Museum online, accession number 2010.177.
FootnotesThe population of the Taino people of the Dominican Republic and surrounding Caribbean islands may have been as high as 2 million by the 15th century. The Zemi, a spiritual figure forms a major part of their existing legacy and examples exist in many sizes including depictions in wood and stone.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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Pre-Columbian Terracotta Cup with Panther Face
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Globular in profile with slightly flared mouth loop handle, six radiating spurs below the shoulder and discoid boss with incised feline face detailing. 140 grams, 92 mm
From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent. -
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Pre-Columbian Nazca Terracotta Vessel with Mythical Creature
100-700 A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £845
Biconical vessel with conical underside and domed upper, two vertical spouts to the centre with flat-section bar between, painted frieze of creatures to the shoulder including severed heads. 713 grams, 18.5 cm
From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.
The depiction of severed heads being held by mythical creatures as trophies reflects a society where warfare was commonplace and celebrated through art. -
Mesoamerican Costa Rican Jadeite Ceremonial Jaguar Mace Head
100-500 A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £572
Dual profile animal-head mace head with drilled eye and teeth exposed; hole close the edge for suspension; mounted on a custom-made stand. 209 grams total, 11 cm including stand
Acquired in the 1990s. Private collection, England.
These mace heads were sculpted with great care and likely produced for high ranking members of society. Often zoomorphic in form, this example is particularly notable for its dual aspect with a monkey face on one side contrasted with a more human skull appearance on the other. A fine and interesting example with great expression and design.
