Lot 2026
Tiano Culture Zemis Image Stone Hisppaniola
Sold June 27, 2025
- Price realized
- $425
Price realized is the winning bid (hammer price) and excludes buyer’s premium.
About this lot
Estimated Value: $ 1,000-3,000
Origin: Dominican Republic or Cuban, Pre-Columbian
Dimensions: 5×2.5×7
Condition: No visible flaws
Additional Information: A carved black stone Zemis of a stylized figure with no arms and squatted long legs. The figures eyes are round and is sown with a partial open mouth. The figures back has a detailed spine.
Lesser gods associated with natural forces were worshipped through stone carvings or Zemis, which depicted either gods or ancestors. These objects often emphasized the head, which is the location of spiritual power. Zemís figures could be used as stands, reliquaries, or as part of personal adornment.
The Taino were the first indigenous group that Columbus met on his first stop (San Salvador, the Bahamas) Zemis were channels to the ancient gods and were ceremoniously implemented during hallucinogenic joutneys. Taino art reflects their passion with the afterlife and with spiritual unfluence from the gods of old.
Lot details
- Lot
- 2026
- Closed
- June 27, 2025
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