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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 Mexican Michoacan Standing Figure
300-100 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £364
Modelled in the half-round as a nude female, wearing arm bangles and an ornamental collar; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 527 grams total, 23 cm high including stand
Ex Alan Cherry, Bournemouth, UK. Acquired in the 1990s. From a Norfolk, UK, private collection.
This is a large example of the figurines of ancient Michoacan. These sculptures were made in abundance during the pre classic period and were likely crafted for personal use as votive figures. As with this example, these sculptures are renowned for showing details of necklaces and other adornment of the period. -
Pre-Columbian Stirrup Pot in Human Form
11th century A.D.Estimate: £200 - 300 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £100
Hollow-formed with rounded underside, modelled with bulbous body and head, arms forming lateral loop handles and third to the rear; vent to the top of the head; restored. 877 grams, 20 cm
Acquired in the 1970s. Ex Nicolas Cuppy, UK. Acquired in the 1980s. Property of a Cambridgeshire gentleman. -
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.
