Taino Culture 10th to 15th Century AD Diorite Ceremonial Axe with Stylized Simian Figure - 28.8 cm

12
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€ 1
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Peter Reynaers
Expert
Selected by Peter Reynaers

Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.

Estimate  € 11,000 - € 13,000
FR
€1

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Taino ceremonial axe with a stylized simian figure, dating to the 10th–15th century AD, carved in dark diorite and standing 28.8 cm high.

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Description from the seller

Taino Ceremonial Axe with Stylized Simian Figure – 10th to 15th Century AD

A finely carved Taino ceremonial axe from the Dominican Republic, dating to the 10th to 15th Century AD, sculpted in dark stone and surmounted by a highly stylized simian or monkey-like anthropomorphic figure. The upper section is carefully modeled with a projecting muzzle, rounded cranial form and compact body, while the sides display deeply incised geometric motifs arranged in concentric patterns. The long, polished lower section forms the handle or haft-like extension of the object. The surface preserves mineral concretions and earthy deposits, with visible traces consistent with prolonged burial, while retaining a smooth polished finish across much of the stone.

Material: Dark stone, likely diorite
Dimensions: 28.8 cm height
Provenance: Acquired in Germany at an Auction House. Previously owned by a German gentleman, acquired in the 1980s, then by his descendants. With Dutch Export Permit.

We guarantee the authenticity of the pieces, backed by the combined experience of our experts spanning more than 40 years. A Certificate of Authenticity (CoA) will be sent digitally by email.
This item has been legally acquired under European Law.

Taino Ceremonial Axe with Stylized Simian Figure – 10th to 15th Century AD

A finely carved Taino ceremonial axe from the Dominican Republic, dating to the 10th to 15th Century AD, sculpted in dark stone and surmounted by a highly stylized simian or monkey-like anthropomorphic figure. The upper section is carefully modeled with a projecting muzzle, rounded cranial form and compact body, while the sides display deeply incised geometric motifs arranged in concentric patterns. The long, polished lower section forms the handle or haft-like extension of the object. The surface preserves mineral concretions and earthy deposits, with visible traces consistent with prolonged burial, while retaining a smooth polished finish across much of the stone.

Material: Dark stone, likely diorite
Dimensions: 28.8 cm height
Provenance: Acquired in Germany at an Auction House. Previously owned by a German gentleman, acquired in the 1980s, then by his descendants. With Dutch Export Permit.

We guarantee the authenticity of the pieces, backed by the combined experience of our experts spanning more than 40 years. A Certificate of Authenticity (CoA) will be sent digitally by email.
This item has been legally acquired under European Law.

Details

Culture
Taino Culture 10th to 15th Century AD
Century/timeframe
10th to 15th Century AD
Name of object
Ceremonial Axe with Stylized Simian Figure
Acquired from
Auction house
Year acquired
2025
Material
Diorite
Country acquired from
Germany
Condition
Very good
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Height
28.8 cm
Previous owner - year acquired
1980
Previous owner - country acquired from
Germany
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
The NetherlandsVerified
461
Objects sold
100%
Privatetop

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The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.

The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.

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