Loading, please wait...
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:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Pre-Columbian Stone Taino Transforming Zemi Figure
Circa 1500 A.D. or laterSold for (Inc. bp): £910
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. 6 kg total, 34.3 cm high including stand
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 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. -
Pre-Columbian Peruvian Burnished Black Pot with Frogs
11th century A.D.Estimate: £200 - 300 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £100
Squat in profile with trumpet-shaped mouth, lateral pierced lugs each formed as the head and foreparts of a frog modelled in the half-round. 605 grams, 15 cm high
Acquired in the 1970s. Ex Nicolas Cuppy, UK. Acquired in the 1980s. Property of a Cambridgeshire gentleman. -
Large Pre-Columbian Chancay Water Container with Monkey Handle
9th-14th century A.D.Estimate: £400 - 600 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £200
Drum-shaped in plan with bulb to the mouth; strap handle with sitting monkey to the outer edge; second similar handle to the other side; each flat face with painted check pattern and central cross with meander ornament; mounted on a custom-made wooden stand. 4.5 kg total, 40 cm including stand
Acquired in the 1970s. Ex Nicolas Cuppy, UK. Acquired in the 1980s. Property of a Cambridgeshire gentleman.
