Description:

Pre-Columbian, Caribbean, Taino people, ca. 1200 to 1500 CE. Taino art is comprised of many religious objects associated with the worship of "zemis" - a term referring to deities, ancestors, or earth spirits believed to be inhabited by powerful spirits. This curved pendant, carved from a manatee bone, represents a sacred zemi figure with a cadaverous visage, arms in front with clasped hands showing incised fingers, and a lower area with elaborately incised and carved geometric motifs. The back of the figure is also carved to look like a skeletal body. 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. This pendant is pierced horizontally through the neck so it could be worn. Size: 1.15" W x 4" H (2.9 cm x 10.2 cm)

Provenance: Whisnant Gallery, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, acquired over twenty years ago

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#123243

  • Condition: Intact, with natural wear to the end of the bone which forms the lower end of the pendant. Very small encrusted deposits in lower profile areas.

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June 29, 2017 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$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 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000