Jaguar Warrior Mask

This interesting Mexican ceramic depicts an Aztec warrior wearing a jaguar mask. Masks were an important part of their culture and were often worn in theatrical dances and processions. The jaguar figure has always been a powerful symbol and respected by the pre-Columbians societies, and so jaguar warriors dressed themselves as these animals in order to gain their strengths. Jaguar warriors were a high class Aztec military unit made up of men who had proven themselves on the battlefield with a focus on being adept at capturing enemy soldiers. Reaching the rank of jaguar warrior meant a change in social status with many privileges being allowed such as drinking alcohol, having concubines and eating with the nobility. These statues are made in the traditional 'barro' style by a small family workshop near Texcoco, Mexico. Approx. 12. 6cm × 7. 5cm × 5. 6cm

Origin: Mexico