Figure Item Number: E355 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Amate (amatl) paper cutout figure of a humanoid male with a dagger hanging from each upraised arm. Wearing a headdress. Four lines protrude from the junction of thigh and body on either side. Cut from lighter coloured mulberry paper, mounted on darker brown fig paper. A label on the back says 'El Senor de Mantezoma'.
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.
Figures represent vital life force of beings both human, animal, plant and supernatural.
shamanism; magical cures
Purchased at Victor's, an established dealer in Mexico City who specialized in indigenous crafts. Object was probably intended solely for sale.