Mixtec Aztec, ceremonial shield, four-point solar disc

European Museums, The British Museum

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Four point solar disc on an Mixtec Aztec ceremonial shield, the turquoise mosaic

Ceremonial shield

Mixtec Aztec, 1400 - 1521 A.D.

This ceremonial shield portrays the principal divisions of the Aztec universe. Viewed horizontally, the circular shape corresponds to the surface of the earth with a navel-like solar disk at its center. From this extend four rays outline in red shell dividing the world into four quarters, in each of which stands a sky-bearer.

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Four point solar disc on an Mixtec Aztec ceremonial shield, the turquoise mosaic

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Source:  London, United Kingdom