Papel Amate Traditional Ceremonial cuttings- The Otomi Indian live in a five state area. Many Otomi pueblos are located deep in the remote areas of the region know as the Hausteca. These villages still retain strong currents of traditional beliefs and customs. Theirs is a view of the world filled with a pantheon of invisible spirits. These spirits , good and evil, affect every aspect of life. They hold Zaki ( life forces) and Na Xudi the ( shadow side)of all things. Many events from building a house, death, arguments with neighbors , successful harvest or even love, are explained by the presence of the spirits. The shaman use beautiful paper dolls (Dahi) cut from handmade amate paper to represent and manipulate these forces. They conduct cleansings, healings and "costumbres" ( ritual ceremonies) with the "Dahi" to heal and protect the villagers. These figures are representations of these “spirits ” and are intended share these amazing designs with the world.
The Ebay store is a secure place to purchase some of the wonderful textiles and gifts you find here in the Web site. The textile study , now in its 4th year needs financial help, when you purcahse on Ebay you help the continued documnetation of these endangered cultures. Please check it out...click on the text above
