Description:

Pre-Columbian, Caribbean region, perhaps Dominican Republic, Taino (Arawak) Indians, ca. 1000 to 1500 CE. A beautifully carved skull made from creamy white agate with circular inclusions formed by concentric bands of mineral layers. The skull features large, indented eye sockets, raised edges for the cheekbones, linear nose cavities, and a deep groove for the mouth. Ancestor worship among the Taino often involved preserving the skulls of the deceased, leading to the frequent appearance of skull carvings in Taino art. Like figures or idols that represented deities, ancestors, or natural forces, carved skulls were believed to hold the spiritual power known as the zemi, embodying ancestral knowledge or wisdom. As such, they were consulted and held in high esteem. Size: 2.75" L x 1.5" W x 3.25" H (7 cm x 3.8 cm x 8.3 cm); 4.75" H (12.1 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

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#190045

    Condition:
  • Natural inclusions and striations on the surface. The verso has an old gouge / abrasion which is smooth with age. Otherwise intact and choice.

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American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

SHIPPING LOGISTICS: As a courtesy to our clients worldwide, Artemis Gallery is happy to handle shipping for most lots sold, taking the hassle (and high cost!) out of having to arrange shipping on your own. Shipping costs will be added to your invoice at auction's end based on information given when you registered to bid - we strive to offer the most economical shipping costs to ensure safe transit. Our shippers of choice are DHL for International shipments and UPS for domestic shipments, but we are able to ship via other carriers at the buyer's expense as deemed necessary or by request.

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Items will be shipped only upon receipt of payment in full and will be insured for their full value - no exceptions.

January 17, 2025 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000