The Ahuizotl is a mythical, dog-like aquatic creature from Aztec folklore known for drowning victims using a human-like hand on its tail, symbolizing a "spiny aquatic thing". It served as a guardian of sacred waters, dragging people down to serve the water god Tlaloc. This shield (Aztec - chimalli) was used for ceremonial purposes, and was constructed of various animal skins and furs, attached to a wood frame using plant materials, and decorated with various pigments and gold decoration.
'Ahuizotl' Shield (Chīmalli)
animal skin, fur, plants, pigments, gold
c. 1325-1501 CE
Aztec culture
Mexico
In Aztec mythology, an ahuizotl was a guardian of the sacred waters of Lake Texcoco.
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