Sculpture from a Cache of Ritual Figures has been attributed to the Mimbres/Salado culture, which flourished in New Mexico between the 10th and 12th centuries. This male figure symbolizes the sky. The black-and-turquoise zigzag pattern probably refers to lightning and rainstorms. The black-and-white patterns around his waist may represent stars and constellations. The sculpture bears resemblance to figures known as katchinas, still seen and used among the Pueblo people. It was part of a set of figures and throwing sticks that were discovered wrapped and stored in a cave. Natural formations such as caves were important features of ancient Native American sacred geography as places to communicate with the life-giving spirits of the earth, sky, and water.