Amate (amatl) paper cutout figure. Detailed humanoid figure with arms raised; fruit-shaped projections at sides and headdress(?) above. Cut from brown handmade paper while folded in half vertically, so both sides are mirror-images.

• Iconographic Meaning

  Figures represent the vital life force of beings both human, animal, plant and supernatural.

• Narrative

  Purchased by the donor in San Pablito in 1996.

• History Of Use

  These paper figures represent nzahki, which in the Otomi language means the living force of all beings in this and other worlds. They are traditionally used in healing and agricultural rituals.

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• Type of Item figure
• Culture Otomi
• Material fig bark paper
• Measurements height 19.2 cm, width 12.4 cm (overall)

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• Previous Owner Dorothy Field
• Received from Dorothy Field

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• Made in San Pablito

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• Collection Date during 1996
• Ownership Date before May 9, 2022
• Acquisition Date on May 9, 2022

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• Item Classes works on paper
• Condition good
• Accession Number 3565/0012