Pre-Columbian, Caribbean / Florida, Arawak People, Taino, ca. 11th to 15th century CE. A heavy stone zemi (sometimes cemi) figure, carved from a dense, dark brown/black rock to have a distinctive, large nose, large eyes, and a leering open mouth. The figure's hands are drawn up to its knees, as if holding itself tightly, its fingers carefully delineated. 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. 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. Size: 6.5" W x 10" H (16.5 cm x 25.4 cm)

Provenance: private H. Berk collection, Chicago, Illinois, USA

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#134644

Volcanic stone surface is weathered, with some light deposits on it. Nice preservation of form.