Papercuts were hung inside Jewish homes in Europe from before the Middle Ages, when superstitious amulets were considered important charms to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Amulets which included any of the names of G-d carried the most powerful Jewish magic, giving special meaning to charms written on paper. Especially popular written amulets were mezuzot, affixed to the doorway of a house to keep evil spirits from entering, and papercuts which were hung inside a home particularly to protect women in childbirth and young chil-dren.

This amulet draws on designs from Pueblo Indian pottery, elements of Sephardic (Spanish) and "Santa Fe" style found throughout the southwest, and traditional Jewish symbols. The round design is similar to baskets and Pueblo pottery bowls. In the center is the six-petal flower, symbol of the hidden Jews of New Mexico, which is enclosed in a Star of David. In turn, this is entwined with squash blossoms/pomegranates, symbols of fertility from the earth. These are enclosed by band of mesas, one of the major elements of the Southwest desert landscape.

The next circle contains a repeating pattern of eagle feathers, which represent the strength of the spirit world to Native Americans. The two outermost circles both contain water patterns—the inner one representing the ‘feathered serpent’ water god of the pueblos who brings rain, and the outermost one a design which represents the flowing water of a river.
These, in turn, are surrounded by the heavens and earth. Above the water is the universe, represented by the sun, moon and stars in the sky. Below is the earth, with sacred corn growing in one corner. In the other corner is the Hebrew word Shaddai -- -- written twice in the other to amplify its strength. Considered the most complete and powerful name of G-d, this word tradition-ally carries with it special power to bring safety and protection.

Nan Rubin
8/92

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