Collection context
Summary
- Creators:
- Lenz, Lee W.
- Abstract:
- Extent:
- 3.7 linear feet (4 boxes)
- Language:
- Preferred citation:
-
Lee W. Lenz amate collection. California Botanic Garden
Background
- Scope and content:
-
The collection contains Mexican amate paper crafts (cut-outs and paintings), papermaking materials, and other handicrafts. The names of creators, origins, and dates of creation of the crafts and papermaking materials are unknown in nearly every case. The collection also includes reference materials on Mexican papermaking and materials for a 2017 California Botanic Garden Library exhibition.
- Biographical / historical:
-
Amate is a bark-based paper with origins in pre-Columbian Mexico. Originally used for religious purposes and in the creation of codices, the Spanish attempted to eradicate indigenous papermaking practices during the colonial period. However, papermaking knowledge and crafts survived among some indigenous groups, most notably the Otomi and Nahua. In the 20th century, there was a resurgence of interest in amate paper crafts, with new commercial uses emerging in addition to traditional ritual purposes. The collection was assembled by Lee W. Lenz (1915-2019), former director of Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden (now California Botanic Garden). Some items in the collection were used for a 2017 California Botanic Garden Library exhibition.
- Acquisition information:
- The collection was donated to California Botanical Garden by Lee W. Lenz in 2017. One book was donated by Sam Garcia in memory of Lee W. Lenz in 2020.
Indexed terms
Access and use
- Restrictions:
-
The collection is open to research.
- Terms of access:
-
Copyright of the materials in this collection is held by California Botanic Garden.
- Preferred citation:
-
Lee W. Lenz amate collection. California Botanic Garden
- Location of this collection:
-
1500 N College AvenueClaremont, CA 91711, US
- Contact:
- (909) 625-8767