A generic term that refers to a broad class of anthropomorphic figures or dolls used as focus entities to ritually bind social or supernatural enemies. Extant historical sources specify these figures' roles as mere representations or symbols, rather than facsimilies, of social or supernatural identities. They serve primarily as a tangible medium for ritual performance through which spiritual forces can be contained. Traditional treatment of the figures included twisting, burning, melting, and otherwise manipulating their limbs into bound positions; piercing the objects with pins or nails; and enclosing the dolls within sealed boxes.
