Aztec Warrior Ceramic Replica Sculpture from Mexico, "Large Jaguar Warrior"

The sculpted bust of a jaguar warrior unearthed in Texcoco inspires artisans from the Angel Cerón Artisan Association in the creation of this sculpture. Ancient Aztecs believed the jaguar to be associated with the god of night, and to become a jaguar one had to capture at least four enemies. Jaguar warriors, or ocelopilli, were used to capture enemies to be sacrificed to the gods. They would wear jaguar fur and claws for they believed the items would make them stronger and braver. They fought with wooden swords studded with obsidian.