Lot 191
Pre-Columbian, Caribbean / Florida, Arawak People, Taino, ca. 15th century CE. A marvelous greenstone zemi figure of a nude male experiencing the transformational and hallucinogenic effects of cohoba - a vegetal entheogen used in ceremonies performed at prescribed times throughout the year. Seated on a plinth with his legs drawn up and his hands on his knees, the fascinating figure exhibits a slender body with a narrow waist, lengthy limbs, an erect phallus, and a huge head capped with an elaborated headband. His expressive visage displays giant, sunken eyes, a broad nose, and a sizeable mouth held open to show gritting teeth, all flanked by a pair of projecting ears. His emaciated state is especially evident on his verso, where one can clearly see his spine and rib cage. Note the impressively preserved detail in his anklets, bangles, arm bands, and skeletal structure. Size: 7.4" W x 12.5" H (18.8 cm x 31.8 cm)
Taino art is comprised of many cult objects associated with the worship of "zemis." The term zemi refers to deities, ancestors, or earth spirits. Zemis like this example are believed to be inhabited by powerful spirits. Owners of zemi figures traditionally honored them with offerings of food or precious gifts. Each Zemi had its own identity and name, personality, distinct characteristics, and powers. These intriguing figures were also used for stands, reliquaries, and personal adornment, with many serving as implements in ceremonies involving a vegetal entheogen known as cohoba - a hallucinogenic powder or paste that was inhaled through snuff tubes. One can see the effects of cohoba on this zemi: the emaciated look may represent someone who had been fasting, and the sunken eyes and gritting teeth may indicate that he is in a drug-induced state.
Provenance: private J. Hart Collection, Houston, Texas, USA, acquired mid-1970's; ex-R. Harrison "Essex Collection"; ex-David Menzel collection, Dominican Republic, 1960s
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#174554
- Condition: Base is uneven creating slight wobble. Chip to proper right side of chin. Stable fissure to head. Age-expected nicks and abrasions and some areas of resurfacing. Otherwise, intact and excellent with impressive remaining detail and deep encrustations.
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