Hidalgo - otomi embroidery
Otomi Embroidery, a captivating art form, is crafted by the indigenous Otomi people of Hidalgo. Their renowned creations, known as Tenangos, are meticulously handmade by the skilled Otomi weavers residing in the central Mexican Altiplano region. These skilled artisans employ expert embroidery techniques to intricately stitch vibrant and colorful decorative pieces, showcasing their exceptional craftsmanship and artistic prowess
Otomi women begin by sketching their designs onto a blank cotton cloth, which serves as the canvas for their artistry. Then, they apply vibrant embroidered decorations using a satin herringbone stitch that only appears on one side of the cloth, creating a stunning interplay of colors and textures.
This technique, known as blind stitching, is challenging and demands years of practice to master. As a result, each piece is truly unique, with no two being identical, yet they all beautifully showcase the captivating balance between positive and negative space.
The designs of Otomi embroidery symbolize the native flora and fauna of the region, featuring animals, plants, abstract patterns, iconic figures, gods, and mythological creatures. These symbols trace their origins back to prehistoric times, believed to have been first depicted in cliff paintings within the Tepehua-Otomi mountains. Generation after generation, the Otomi people have passed down these meaningful designs.
Creating an Otomi piece requires immense time and dedication. Larger Tenangos, such as bedspreads or tablecloths, can take up to 12 months to complete, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship involved in this ancient art form.
