Description:

Pre-Columbian, Caribbean area, Hispaniola, Arawak Taino Indians, ca. 1200 to 1500 CE. Finely carved from manatee bone, a spoon with a handle depicting a zemi face comprised of large concave eyes, an incised nose, open recessed mouth with delineated teeth and a turban-like headdress decorated with incised stylized geometric motifs. Custom stand. Size: 4.375" L x 1" W (11.1 cm x 2.5 cm); 5" H (12.7 cm) on stand

Taino art is comprised of many cult objects associated with the worship of "zemis". The term zemi refers to deities, ancestors, or earth spirits. These zemis are believed to be inhabited by powerful spirits. Zemis are understood as objects of concentrated power with the ability to impact their owners both positively and negatively, thought to affect fertility and productivity as well as social and political activities.

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

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#123042

  • Condition: Expected surface wear, a few nicks/losses, and minor staining commensurate with age.

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January 18, 2018 8:00 AM MST
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