Incense Burner

The components of this incense burner reflect Teotihuacan ideas about militarism as well as ceramic manufacturing. The individual parts have distinct meaning that when integrated, create a greater whole. Teotihuacan influenced many exotic tropical lands. The birds attached to feather-shields may reference these locales. The flowers on the top panel may refer to the city itself. The butterflies in the middle may reference the spirit of a deceased warrior, likened to a burning ember flitting in a fire—symbolism underscored by the prominent butterfly antennae above the human face. The rectangular panels at the base (here upside down) may represent bound torches. Each piece was likely made from a mold, a technique that allowed for both standardization and rapid production.