Sovereign Dressed as Xiuhtecuhtli

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In the coronation ceremoies of Mexica rulers it was customary to represent them with features of the god of fire, Xiuhtecuhtli, who also sponsored political power. The character represented in this sculpture wears the painted blue (now missing) diadem, nose and ear accessories that corresponds precisely to the turquoise ornaments of Xiuhtecuhtli, so it could serve as the image of one of the sovereigns the day he assumes power.