“Embroidered in a style known as tenango, this intricate textile reflects long-established Otomi needlework traditions and the ingenuity of its artist. This style can be traced to the community of San Nicolas in the municipality of Tenango de Doria in Hidalgo, Mexico. In the 1960s, the Otomi, known as the Ñuhu or Hñähñu, developed this new commercial embroidery technique to generate revenue in response to a severe drought that caused an economic crisis. Today, the textiles continue to provide revenue for the community of San Nicolas, revered by tourists and all those who appreciate the skill and craftsmanship of these beautiful hand-embroidered textiles.
Some of the motifs, embroidered on the front of the fabric using a satin stitch, are said to be derived from cave or cliff paintings in the area, while others are drawn from everyday life. In this textile, bold, graphic designs of flora and fauna, cats, deer, rabbits, armadillos, turkeys, parrots and mythical hybrid animals joyfully reside together, animating the wall hanging.”
#FabricFriday:
Wall Hanging - Tenango Embroidery
Otomi culture, Hildago, Mexico, 20th c.
Cotton, 77 1/2 x 72 in. (194.32 x 182.88 cm)
Mingei International Museum 2007-49-058B
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