|
This is an exceptional example of a Taino art
form known as the ‘trigonolitos,’ literally a
three-cornered stone. The Taino culture
flourished in the Caribbean between c.1200
-1500, but three-pointers have a much longer
history in the region. Plain, undecorated
examples have been dated as early as 400-200
B.C. Taino craftsmen, which included men and
woman, carved increasingly elaborate three-
pointers and built up a whole repertory of
anthropomorphic and zoomorphic motifs. The
function of these ritual objects remains shrouded
in mystery. The raised central section has been
considered representative of manioc shoots (the
main Taino crop), volcanoes, the roofs of Taino
houses, phalluses and the human breast.
Although the Taino themselves left no written
record, the Spanish settlers that ultimately
destroyed the Taino way of life did comment
upon these unusual objects. In fact the most
illuminating testimony that survives was written
by Columbus himself, ‘Equally the majority of
caciques (chiefs) have three stones to which they
and their people have great devotion. One they
say is for the fertility of the grain and vegetables
that they grow; the next for mothers to give birth
without pain, and the third for the water and sun
when they have need.’ According to this
interpretation three-pointers were used to
encourage fertility and tame powerful natural
forces for the benefit of the Taino people.
This example represents one of the most
complex types to survive. One side features a
skull-like human face with deep eye-sockets and
a wide, grimacing mouth. The Taino were
polytheistic and worshipped a wide variety of
deities associated with natural forces. Ancestor
worship was also pivotal to their society and this
face could be symbolic of a deceased chieftain or
respected shaman. A striking variety of incised
geometric motifs, including tightly wound coils,
adorn the reverse. Possible representing tattoos
or textile designs worn by high status
individuals, these motifs would have had
religious and social associations that are
impossible to recapture today. However, the
powerful impact of the bold carving and abstract
form continue to astound a modern audience.
(AM)
- (LO.1318)
|
