Head of Chalchiuhtlicue, goddess of inland water and springs

Chalchiuhtlicue (“She of the Jade Skirt") is the Central Mexican patroness of lakes and streams. She is usually recognized by her skirt of jade and her headdress with its multiple bands, small circles, and large tassels hanging down on either side of the face. She is the wife-sister of Tlaloc, the Aztec god of rain and thunder, and both are Creator Gods. This kind of sculpture was most likely wor…