|
This extraordinary sculpture depicts a zemi
figure- the physical manifestation of a Taino
god, spirit or ancestor. Carved from a dark,
dense stone, the figure assumes a ritual
crouching position, with his legs bent
underneath him at the knees. The hands rest just
below the chin with the fingers pointing vertically
downwards. Unusually the depth of the sculpture
is much longer than the width; this is
accentuated by the face which projects forward.
The eye-sockets and the wide grimacing mouth
dominate the face and suggest a skeletal form.
The appearance of the nose, particularly the
nostrils, as well as the positioning of the hands
suggest that human and zoomorphic features
may have been merged together. The Taino were
polytheistic and believed in the existence of an
afterlife- in which the souls of the dead would
return in the shape of animals. In Taino
mythology animals were also regarded as
ancestors so it is not inconceivable that this dual
identity should be encapsulated in an important
piece of ritual sculpture.
Another fascinating aspect of this work is the flat
circular platform just behind the figure’s head.
Viewed in profile, it appears to represent some
kind of basket or ritual object carried on the
zemi’s back. Elaborate geometric motifs,
principally coils and triangular incisions, adorn
this as well as the pedestal and headdress of the
figure. These patterns may reflect tattoos or
textile designs worn by members of the Taino
elite. Although the precise function of such a
carving is unknown, many Taino stone sculptures
had some association with the use of cohoba.
This was a hallucinogenic powder ground from
trees native to the region. It was used by
shamans to induce a trance-like state
of mind in which they would be able to
communicate with the souls of the dead. The
small circular platform on this piece may have
been used as a grinding surface or to support
other implements associated with this ritual. A
sculpture of this size and complexity would
undoubtedly have been the preserve of the
chieftain (cacique) or his closest retinue and
offers us a rare glimpse into the spiritual world
of the Taino. (AM)
- (LO.1323)
|
