Pre-Columbian, Caribbean Islands, Taino, 15th century CE. A splendid stone elliptical collar or yoke, most likely part of the regalia for the ceremonial ballgame which was played with rubber balls and colorfully described by Spanish chroniclers. This ballgame yoke is skillfully hand-carved with a fine abstract geometric design of rhomboid motifs and meandering striations. An impressive example from ancient Taino culture - a fascinating and aesthetically pleasing decoration for any home! Size: 14.5" W x 17.7" H (36.8 cm x 45 cm); 22.25" H (56.5 cm) on included custom stand.

According to the Metropolitan Museum curatorial team, "Zemi refers not to an object or image but to an immaterial, spiritual, and vital force pertaining to deities and ancestors. There are several known zemi identities recorded by the Spanish, some of which have been linked to archaeological images."

This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world’s largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.

Provenance: private Chicago, Illinois, USA collection; Ex Doug Dawson Gallery; B.C. Holland Gallery; Both in Chicago

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#164461

Normal surface wear commensurate with age. Scattered mineral deposits. Otherwise excellent, intact, with vivid carving.