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Portfolio Category: Zemis

Zemis collection

Zemis collection
Zemies represented deities and each social group could choose their own zemies. There could exist rivalries among the various zemies. Zemies were manufactured from every suitable material available and in all sizes. Here we have the ones which were used as pendants or otherwise tied to the forehead and whose function was to serve as…
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Small Zemi

Small Zemi
Zoomorphic representation of a small zemi. An animist conception of nature is characteristic for indigenous beliefs. Human traits are attributed to animals, which are considered to be embodiments of mythological beings. Living creatures were believed to have a dual existence and could transform themselves, into animals.
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Zemi

Zemi
This is a stone pendent or amulet. The squatting position of this and other amulets has been associated with the flexed position in which the Tainos generally buried their dead.
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Small stone zemi

Small stone zemi
Shamans played an important role in Taíno society as medical practitioners, using an hallucinogenic preparation named "Cohoba" to get in trance and to contact the spirits for help to determine the cause of the illnesses. The Shaman recited sacred chants accompanied of maracas to play a rhythm. He produced a stone amulet and which he…
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Little bone zemi with skull head

Little bone zemi with skull head
The Taíno placed strong importance on ancestor worship. They believed in afterlife and great care was given to the dead. Skull designs represent dead ancestors. Zemies who represented ancestors were objects of great power and were perceived as supernatural beings who could help the person who possessed them.
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