Figure Item Number: 3565/24 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Amate (amatl) paper cutout figure. Detailed two-headed bird with two birds on head, and two small human figures at sides of head. Cut from beige handmade paper while folded in half vertically, so both sides are mirror-images.
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.
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.
Item History
- Made in San Pablito, Mexico
- Collected during 1996
- Owned by Dorothy Field before May 9, 2022
- Received from Dorothy Field (Donor) on May 9, 2022
What
- Name
- Figure
- Identification Number
- 3565/24
- Type of Item
- figure
- Material
- mulberry bark paper
- Overall
- height 19.3 cm, width 14.2 cm
Who
- Culture
- Otomi
- Previous Owner
- Dorothy Field
- Received from
- Dorothy Field (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- San Pablito, Mexico
When
- Collection Date
- during 1996
- Ownership Date
- before May 9, 2022
- Acquisition Date
- on May 9, 2022
Other
- Item Classes
- works on paper
- Condition
- good
- Accession Number
- 3565/0024