Aztec Turquoise Mask of Xiuhtecuhtli Taken by Spanish Conquistador Reveals Ancient Violent Ritual

An intricate turquoise mask, believed to depict the Aztec fire god Xiuhtecuhtli, is displayed at the British Museum. Originating from 16th-century Mesoamerica, the wooden mask features turquoise mosaic, mother-of-pearl eyes, and conch shell teeth. Central to Aztec rituals, such masks symbolised fire and renewal. The artefact may have been part of ceremonial practices ...