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Among the most abundant of artifacts attributed
to the Pre-Columbian indigenous Taíno peoples,
who populated the Bahamas, Antilles, and Lesser
Antilles, zemi three-pointer stones are revered
for their unusual triangulated shape, cone-
shaped apex and elaborate patterns. Zemis are
often defined as everything which possesses
magical powers, including deities and even
skeletal remains. In fact, souls of the deceased
were also identified as zemis. Although many
three-pointers are undecorated, this green stone
sculpture is carved with an anthropomorphic
image on the anterior and circular, maze-like
motifs resembling reptilian coils on the posterior
end. These characteristics are indicative of a
Type I “wrapped snake” three-pointer, however
what is particularly interesting is that most
three-pointers that are incised with reptilian
coils are often paired with a reptilian face. In this
case, the face resembles that of a human with a
wide, opened mouth that seems tilted upwards,
and large hollowed out eyes. The mouth and
nose that are tilted to resemble Type III three-
pointers. His chin is also ornamented by the
reptilian coils, which extend around the
perimeter of his face as well.
This green three-pointer combines human and
animal traits, which convey not only an aura of
strength but also a trance-like state aroused by a
shaman’s hallucinogens. The function of such
artefacts is still hotly disputed. Many Taíno
scholars conclude that three-pointers were
buried as fertility charms in conucos or manioc
mounds and even in shrines with other zemis.
These figures might also be physical articulations
of the Taíno mythological legacy. Yet, there
remains much doubt over the use of less
intricately decorated three-pointers as fertility
charms. Letters written by Christopher Columbus
suggest that these stone sculptures were created
to fertilize the land and encourage fertility
amongst its inhabitants. Today, these sculptures
offer a unique insight into the religious lives of
the Taino and impress us with the boldness of
their design.
- (DC.1879)
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