The artwork, titled “Xiuhmolpilli (1 Death)”, was created by an unknown artist of Aztec origin around the year 1500. This stone sculpture belongs to the Post-classic period, which spans approximately from 900 to 1580. It is characterized as both a sculpture and a utensil, and it is currently housed in the Museo Nacional de Antropología (MNA) in Mexico City, Mexico.
The artwork depicts intricate carvings in stone, featuring a cylindrical form with detailed ornamental designs on its surface. Each end of the cylinder displays elaborate motifs, likely representative of significant cultural or symbolic elements in Aztec society. The design is rendered with precise and meticulous craftsmanship, indicative of the high level of skill possessed by the artisans of the period. The detailed reliefs exemplify the Aztec’s adeptness in stonework and their rich cultural heritage. The grooves and patterns running along the length of the cylinder add to its visual appeal and complexity, making it not only a utilitarian object but also a piece of art that reflects the aesthetics and symbolic traditions of the Aztec civilization.
