Taíno Serpentine Idol – Dominican Republic – 10th to 15th Century AD Exceptional Taíno idol carved from dark serpentine, representing a powerful anthropomorphic being with an enlarged head, prominent facial features, and a highly stylized body. The figure displays deeply carved eyes, a pronounced nose, parted lips, and an elaborate incised headdress that extends across the forehead and sides of the head. The polished surface and carefully executed engraving reflect the advanced stone-working traditions of the Taíno peoples of the Greater Antilles. The sculpture possesses a strong ceremonial character, combining human and symbolic elements within a compact and balanced composition. Particularly notable is the large dorsal projection rising behind the head, a feature often associated with ritual iconography and spiritual representations. The rich decorative engraving around the temples and headdress enhances the visual impact of the piece while emphasizing its likely role as a sacred zemí or status object connected with ancestral and religious beliefs. Material: Serpentine Dimensions: 9.8 cm height Provenance: Acquired in Germany. Ex German collection formed in the 1980s. All items come with CoA.