OF THE 
 
 COLLECTION 
 
 OF 
 
 MEXICAN ANTIQUITIES, 
 
 NOW EXHIBITING 
 
 AT 
 
 NO. 57, FALL MALL. 
 
 1855. 
 
 PRICE SIXPENCE. 
 
PREFATORY REMARKS. 
 
 The Collection of Antiquities described in the following Catalogue, 
 were found (with the exception of a few, otherwise described,) in the 
 City of Mexico, when, in the year 1849, the army of the United States 
 approached the City and threatened its destruction. Deep trenches 
 and fosses were constructed all around the Capital by order of the 
 Governmnet, as additional defences ; and it was in making the necessary 
 excavations for these, that the Antiquities in question came to light. 
 Antecedently to the Conquest, according to all contemporary historians, 
 the waste ground, now forming the suburbs of Mexico, was covered with 
 houses and streets, the truth of which was proved by numerous founda- 
 tions being laid open ; and within them, often in holes lined and covered 
 with stone, these highly interesting objects were deposited * 
 
 Mr. Charles Bedford Young, the proprietor of the collection, 
 was on the spot at the time, and obtained them, as they were discovered, 
 direct from the finders. The discovery was known throughout the 
 whole Capital, and so jealous were Mexican Antiquaries lest these 
 Antiquities should be taken out of the country, that nothing less than a 
 special order from the Minister of the Interior enabled the proprietor to 
 remove them. 
 
 It is considered that these Antiquities represent the art of three eras, 
 but it is very difficult to classify them with precision. The Stone objects 
 are undoubtedly the earliest, and are probably referable to the Toltec 
 period. Some of the Terra-Cotta Images and Vases are long prior to, 
 and some contemporaneous with, the Spanish Conquest ; a few are 
 evidently subsequent to that period. 
 
 * " Sculptured Images were so numerous that the foundations of the Cathedral in the 
 Plaza Mai/or, the great Square of Mexico, are said to he entirely composed of them. This 
 spot may,' indeed, be regarded as the Aztec Forum— the great depositary of the treasures of 
 ancient sculpture, which now lie hid in its bosom. Such monuments are spread all over the 
 Capital, however, and a new cellar can hardly he dug, or foundation laid, vdhout turning 
 up sonic of the relics of barbaric art." PRESCOTT'S " Conquest of Mexico." 
 
iv 
 
 TREFATORY REINIARKS. 
 
 The Images represent the divinities whom the ancient Mexicans 
 worshipped ; deified heroes or demigods ; household gods (penates) or 
 imaginary representations of their ancestors; priests and sovereign 
 princes or rulers. The Vases are either sacrificial or funereal. The 
 latter sometimes contained human hones (No. 431 was filled with them) 
 and oftentimes fruits and offerings for the dead. The former were used 
 in the Teocalli or Temples — for lihations — for holding water for the 
 priests to wash with after their hideous rites — and for other religious 
 purposes. It will he ohserved that the major part of the ohjects in this 
 Collection are of Terra-Cotta, or baked clay, and it is worthy of notice 
 that Bernal Diaz, the historian of Cortes' expedition, and one of 
 his captaine, states, in his letter to the Emperor Charles V, when 
 detaihng the domestic arrangements of the Mexican Sovereign, Mon- 
 tezuma, that "he was served on earthenware of Cholula, red and 
 black." Nearly all the Terra-Cotta objects in this collection are either 
 red or h-.Gck ! Cholula, distant from Mexico 20 leagues, was the pot- 
 tery district of the empire, but it is now a solitary and uninhabited 
 place ; it was visited by Bullock in 1823, and by Brantz Meyer in 
 3841, both of whom state that they found vast quantities of broken 
 pottery among the ruins. 
 
 The Mythology of the Mexicans is a difiicult subject to approach. 
 All historians, travellers, and arch^ologists have failed in attempting to 
 elucidate it. That they acknowledged one supreme God, of whom they 
 made no visible image, and to whom they rendered no worship, is un- 
 deniable. To Him they attributed the formation of the heavens and 
 the earth, for Montezuma in answer to a question from Cortes, rephed, 
 "in regard to the creation of the world, our behef is the same." 
 And Him they regarded as too beneficent and merciful to injure the 
 beings He had created. But they believed in a number of evil and 
 malignant spirits, who had power to hurt and destroy them, — to these, 
 therefore, they made sacrifices and oblations, to propitiate their favor, 
 and avert their wrath. Certain qualities, attributes, and ideas were 
 personified and worshipped under various aspects ;* and hence the 
 difiiculty of coraprehendiiig the significance of the various hideous and 
 grotesque forms, compound as well as single, which characterize their 
 Idols. Hero-worship was also practised among tliera, for one of their 
 most popular deities was Huiizilipotchtli, the God of war ; he had been 
 a leader of the Toltecs in their long and perilous emigration from the 
 North into the valley of Mexico, many centuries previous to the arrival 
 
 * The God of ^=i!ence is represented with a bar or muzzle over the mouth. 
 
PREFATORY REMARKS. 
 
 V 
 
 of the Spaniards. The Toltecs were in turn exterminated by the 
 Aztecs, a powerful and weakhy people occupying the country, when 
 Hernando Cortes " came, saw, and conquered." 
 
 Seq3ent worship prevailed universally among the ancient Mexicans, 
 and appears indeed to have been the favourite idolatry. From its con- 
 stant repetition on idols of divers forms and shapes, it may have been 
 the symbol of several different divinities.* There are numerous ex- 
 amples of it in this collection. Some, of the best make, represent the 
 animal coiled up in a quiescent state, with head erect and mouth open, 
 the eyes sometimes formed of obsidian ; others are attended by priests 
 or priestesses ; others are represented as devouring a Turtle, (possibly a 
 symbolical record of a conquest). Its occurrence on Vases and Pitchers 
 may help to distinguish those that were sacrificial from those that were 
 funereal. The adoration of the serpent has prevailed in all ages, and 
 the reptile has been regarded alike as the emblem of wisdom, of health, 
 of cunning, and of degradation. 
 
 Among the Reptiles that appear to have occupied some share in their 
 religious worship, are the Bull Frog and Toad, the Armadillo, the 
 Lizard, the Turtle or Tortoise, tlie Alligator, and the Alligator Jlsh.f 
 Of these there are specimens in the Collection. 
 
 The Mexicans had few Musical Instruments except the drum. But 
 in their religious processions they used a species of Flageolet, of which 
 three entire, and four mutilated examples are here preserved. The 
 number of Whistles is remarkable ; one, representing the head of an 
 owl, emits a sound exactly hke the screech of that bird. Another 
 imitates the soft cooing of the dove. The sounds are ludicrously 
 various ; and, to compare ancient things with modern, one gives us an 
 excellent imitation of the Railway Whistle. Of Rattles, also connected 
 with the rites of rehgion, the Collection offers several specimens, of 
 divers sizes and forms. 
 
 Several Antiquaries of note, whose opinions carry the weight of 
 authority with them, (the late Mr. Bullock, and Mr. Beckeord, more 
 
 * The Abb^ Clavi^ers, quotin- Cortes, states that the great Teocalli or Temple "was 
 surrounded by a wail eight feet thick, crowned v. itu b.tUoments m the fona of niches, and 
 ornamented with numerous figures in the shape of serpents. 
 
 + «« It may be readily imagined that people in the dawn of religious ideas, will personify 
 every ill that assails them, under the shape in which it oecoines most aimoy.n^; i ...y 
 Laf^ne when they are assailed by serpents th:xt the evi prnicrp.c ^exe. thorn ^-^^^^^ 
 whJk their houses are overrun with that tbe dcnion ^.-^ . ux^ n^ 
 
 shape ; and thus, according to their simp e reasoning, it ^Y^-} ■ r l" ■ i Jr s 
 
 thii w eked spirit in statues of the disB'mscs he had ^'"^^^'l^^'^'^':':;^^''-^ T':.:, I't 
 to appease hhn by worship and oifcnngs. It is by ''''^S^'^:^^^^'f^^:^'^^ 'h 
 we can alone account for the extraordinary and lancitui cicauoi-b x,i.xi.. a ..a, „. .-i 
 have been preserved until our day and ^^^^^^^^^ . jjr,^^,, u kus and i.." p. S9. 
 
vi 
 
 PEEFATORY REMARKS. 
 
 particularly), considered that a connexion of art might he traced hetween 
 the works of the Mexicans and Peruvians, and those of the ancient 
 Egyptians and Hindoos. It is not our province to discuss this question, 
 hut certainly hetween the stone ohjects and many of the smaller ones in 
 alahaster, in this Collection, and Egyptian statues of the earhest period, 
 there appears to he a resemblance that can scarcely he accidental. 
 
 The owner of this Collection of Antiquities, ]Mr. C. B. Young, is a 
 gentleman of independent fortune, residing in Mexico. At no small 
 cost of time and money, he obtained the Antiquities now exhibited. 
 Actuated by a love of science and archaeological research, he was also 
 stimulated by the hope of making his countrymen better acquainted with 
 the curious productions of an ancient and now nearly extinct people, who 
 long possessed the soil and inhabited the interesting country in which 
 he has passed many years of his life. 
 
EXPLANATION 
 
 OF THE 
 
 COYER OP THE CATALOGUE. 
 
 The Seated Idol in the upper compartment is described in the Catalogue No, 125. 
 The two Coiled Snakes are copies of Nos. 289 and 290. 
 
 The Vases in the lower part are Nos. .385, and 387, and the Turtle and Toad, 
 308 and 318. 
 
 The Ornaments composing the Border are copied from Vases and from Stamps 
 in the Collection. The two circular objects at the sides are from Stamps 
 for impressing cotton fabrics, and may be seen in the glass case. The two 
 Weapons at the bottom may also be found on a stamp, and are supposed to 
 represent the Miquahuilt or Aztec Sword, described in a note appended to 
 No. 64. 
 
 The whole was designed by Mr. George R. Clarke, Artist. 
 
MEXICAN ANTIQUITIES. 
 
 OBJECTS IN TERRA-COTTA. 
 
 DISCS. 
 
 1 A circular Tablet or Disc, representing in relief the Tonalponalli, or 
 
 *' Solar Reckoning," of the ancient Mexicans. They liad two 
 Kalendars by which they computed time ; one being used for the 
 *' reckoning of the Moon," and the regulation of rehgious festivals, 
 and the other for the " reckoning of the Sun," or civil purposes. 
 
 In the centre is the head of the Sun, with rays indicating the 
 Cardinal points ; round the head hieroglyphical figures represent 
 the four seasons, and in the next circle the names of the 18 
 Mexican months of 20 daj/s each, are symbolically exhibited, 
 thus making the calculation of time nearly equal to our own. 
 They reckoned by cycles of 52 years, and subdivided the 
 months into four periods or weeks of five days. 
 
 ♦»* In the wall of the Cathedral at Mexico is a gigantic Tonalponalli 
 in basalt, eleven feet eight inches in diameter. It was found in the 
 Plaza Mayor, on the site of the great Teocalli, and not being 
 visibly connected with ancient religious rites, was allowed to be 
 placed in the wall of one of the towers of the Cathedral. It passes 
 popularly by the name of " El Relox de Montezuma," or 
 " Montezuma's Watch." An engraving and description of it 
 will be found in Brantz Meyer's " Mexico as it was and is," 
 published in 1844. The Kalendar here exhibited is almost 
 identical with it. 
 
 2 Another Kalendar, comprising only the seasons and months, but 
 
 which are very distinctly indicated. The reverse is curiously 
 designed, an owl and a key being prominent symbols, together 
 with four altars or buildings. 
 
10 
 
 3 A thick hollow disc, on which are represented four human heads, a 
 
 scorpion, a hzard, a centipede, and a rabbit's head. The edge is 
 embossed with six heads. 
 
 4 A coarsely executed head in relief, with a head dress of Fleur-de- 
 
 Lis shape ; a serpent is represented below, biting the under lip. 
 Not unlike the wicker shields of the Chinese. 
 
 5 Another head in high relief, with pendant lappets over the ears, and 
 
 a kind of canopy above ; two snakes form the border. 
 
 6 A disc in black pottery. A head surrounded by fish, (pike) and 
 
 . other objects in compartments. At the upper part are eight 
 pellets or circles, indicating a period of time, thus represented 
 by the ancient Mexicans. Twenty small figures compose the 
 border, and on the edge is a row of full-faced masks. 
 
 7 A bas-rehef idol, in a sitting posture, and snakes around it. 
 
 8 An idol or priest, in rehef, with rays surrounding the head. 
 
 9 A priestess, with a snake between her feet. 
 
 10 A beautiful representation of a deity, enthroned, (possibly the " God 
 
 of War," but in the costume of a priest). At his feet are the 
 bow, the arrow, and the miquahuilt. The rays are in the shape 
 of spears. 
 
 *»* This and No. 8, much remind the spectator of the Hindoo Bhudda. 
 
 11 A seated figure, with hands pressed to his sides, radiated and per- 
 
 forated (as several of the foregoing are) for the purpose of 
 hanging on the walls of a tomb. 
 
 12 A disc with two coiled snakes forming an arch over a rude head, 
 
 from which project two arms about to grasp a hzard. Above is 
 a quadruped resembhng the Chinese Kylin. 
 
 13 A disc, on which is represented a plumed bead, bow and arrow, 
 
 quiver, four lances, and the hunting shirt of the Mexican Indian. 
 
 14 A seated figure, crowned with mitre and holding a snake between 
 
 his knees. The form of this is oval, and two snakes form a 
 border, their heads meeting at the top. A large lizard is at the 
 back of this figure. 
 
 IDOLS AND IMAGES. 
 
 15 Nineteen small flat idols, commonly called Tepitoion or Penates. 
 
 These idols were the household gods of the Mexicans. They were 
 to be found in all domestic buildings, to ward off misfortunes 
 and exorcise the evil spirit. They were very numerous, as the 
 sovereigns and great lords had six in their dwellings, the nobles 
 four, and the common people two. They were also suspended on 
 the exterior walls of their houses. 
 
 16 Five other small figures, which are also regarded as Tepitoion. 
 
 These, like the former, have their hands clasped in front, but 
 difter in the form of the head-dress. 
 
 17 Two others, m various attitudes. 
 
n 
 
 18 Twenty-eight others, some very minute, slightly differing in attitude 
 
 and costume. 
 
 19 Four small upright idols or Penates, one of a fenale holding a child. 
 
 20 A seated figure, wearing a huge mask of a bird, which he is sup- 
 
 porting with the left hand. 
 
 21 A seated figure, with a double-headed snake forming a covering for 
 
 the head. The right hand rests on the knee, while the left is 
 placed upon the breast. Between the legs is a human head. 
 
 22 Three small figures in seated posture. 
 
 23 A kneeHng female figure, on the breast of which is a hzard. In 
 
 front is an object resembhng a basket. It is painted blue, the 
 only figure in the collection of that colour. 
 
 24 A kneeling priest holding a small image. 
 
 25 Four small figures. Three of these appear to be analogous with the 
 
 Egpytian Isis, Anuhis, and Typhon. The fourth figure is a 
 Tepitoton. 
 
 26 Seated figure, with high head-dress and pendants. 
 
 27 A Compound figure, the lower part resembhng an Andro-Sphynx, 
 
 upon which is seated a human figure, with ponderous head-dress ; 
 the back enveloped with pendant fish. This idol was found at 
 Huehuetoca, and is considered to represent the " Goddess of 
 the Lakes." 
 
 28 An Isis-like figure, clothed with plumage, with bracelets on the 
 
 wrists. The feathers indicate the " Goddess of the Air." 
 29, 30 Two seated figures, one wearing a hooded cloak, the other with 
 a full face at the back ; they are holding a toad before them 
 with both hands. 
 
 31 A group, consisting of a crouching human figure, wearing a square 
 
 head-dress, which it grasps with either hand, the face expressive 
 of pain. Astride of it is another human figure, the trunk greatly 
 emaciated ; the head dress is pecuhar, consisting of three broad 
 lappets, one of which descends far down the back, it wears a 
 hilt apparently formed of plumage, with armlets, bracelets, and 
 anklets of the same. 
 
 32 Female figure, with radiated head-dress, large disc-formed ear or- 
 
 naments with pendant tassels, and pectoral in the form of a 
 grinning human face. Over the back is a shawl-like covering. 
 This figure is from Huehuetoca. 
 
 33 Seated figure of superior workmanship, the face bearing a different 
 
 character from any other in the collection ; the head-dress is 
 composed of large pendant snakes, and the back covered with 
 double-caped mantle, and wearing drawers, bracelets, leglets, 
 and classic-formed sandals. On the breast is a large turtle, 
 upon which the chin of the figure rests. 
 
 34 A companion figure to No. 32, except that the back is feathered. 
 
 35 Kneeling figure, wearing a winged head-dress, the body encircled by 
 
 a snake, the head of which he holds with the left hand, the 
 long red tongue of the reptile being protruded on its own tail. 
 
12 
 
 36 Large human figui-e, kneeling ; upon the head is seated another 
 
 human figure, weanng a cornuted cap, from which depend two 
 huge snakes, whose heads rest upon the breast of the lower 
 figure. Seated on each knee is an image, one holding a child, 
 the other in an attitude of devotion. Round the neck of the 
 principal personage are three circlets of objects, resembling the 
 he-garb (charms) of the Arabs. 
 
 37 A crouching figure, upon which is seated a lion-like animal, wearing 
 
 a feathered cloak, the hood of wdiich resembles the Mexican 
 Danta. Discovered at Huehuetoca. 
 
 38 Seated figure, in a very uncommon attitude for lilexican images, 
 
 being cross-legged. The head of a snake rests on his knee, the 
 coiled body of the reptile forming his seat. 
 
 39 A priest, seated upon a toad, his head-dress composed of plumes and 
 
 an abridgement of the hieroglyphic character which occurs upon 
 the " Sacred Seal." Long twisted lappets hang from each 
 side of the head ; the right hand grasps a serpent, and on his 
 breast is a grotesque head. 
 
 40 Squatting figure, with peculiar ornament on the breast. 
 
 41 This figure is considered by the Mexican Antiquaries to be an image 
 
 of a Mexican Prince, (not improbably Montezuma himself, in 
 his double character of Emperor and priest)* He is seated on 
 a throne richly ornamented with hieroglypliical emblems. lie 
 wears the imperial mitre, winged at the sides, his hair bound in 
 decorated pendant lappets, and over his shoulders a richly-bor- 
 dered mantle. The breast is covered with the stola or pectoral ; 
 the arms, waists, and legs, decorated with circlets of feathers, 
 and the feet shod with sandals, the straps of w-hich are 
 elaborately ornamented. He holds two symbolical serpents which 
 rest upon his knees. 
 
 *0* This figure is worthy of notice, as displaying a higher class of art 
 compared to many others in the collection. The muscular 
 developement of the limbs and the correct modelling of the feet 
 must strike every spectator. 
 
 42 A plumed seated figure wath two snakes pendant from the head, 
 
 their heads being supported by a Typhonian figure in front, 
 coloured red. 
 
 43 A squatting female, with two snakes coiled round her. 
 
 44 Eobust kneeling figure of a female, holding in front of her a 
 
 Tefitoton. 
 
 45 A priestess, seated on a serpent, and holding an image or idol. 
 
 46 Seated male figure, his feet resting on serpents. A small mask is 
 
 behind the seat. 
 
 Prescott affirms that Montezuma was bred to the priesthood before bis election as Emperor. 
 He thus describes him in his Imperial Costume, " The TUmntH, his mantle of bhie and white, 
 flowed over his shoulders, held together by its rich clasp of the green ChalckiviiL His feet 
 were shod with golden sandals, and his brows covered by the C'ainlli, or Mexican diadem, 
 resembling in form the pontificial tiara." 
 
13 
 
 47 DouLlc-Leadca figure, one head being above the other. He is seated 
 
 upon a coiled serpent, whose liead he grasps with both hands. 
 
 48 Figure in a phnned bonnet, seated on a decorated phnth, the face 
 
 resting on the hands. 
 
 49 A priestess. 
 
 50 A seated idol, with large head-dress. 
 
 51 One of the most remarkable groups in the collection, representing a 
 
 priest in the act of slaying a human victim. The head-dress is 
 composed of double lappets hanging down the back, bound to the 
 head with a broad ornamented fillet. The vestments are peculiar, 
 with a circular radiated image on the breast. The victim bent 
 backward, with his head resting on the lap of the priest, is 
 covered as far as the chest with the sacrificial veil, the priest 
 grasps a knife with which he has just made an incision in the 
 breast of the victim, exposing the heart, which on such occasions 
 w^as taken out palpitating and offered to the idol, in whose honor 
 the sacrifice was made. 
 
 52 Another representation of the Goddess of the Lakes, having fish 
 
 suspended round the head, and an apron formed of fish in front. 
 On each cheek is tattooed a crescent-formed figure, indicative 
 of the influence of the moon over the waters. 
 
 53 Seated figure wearing a grotesque mask. 
 
 54 Nahuatrin, the idol of the sun. A crouching figure, the face 
 
 surrounded with rays, and bearing on its shoulders a lion-headed 
 figure. The fabric is of a very superior character. Found at 
 Huehuetoca. 
 
 55, 56 Two keeling figures, one with snake round it, and the other 
 with long tresses. 
 
 57 A figure of very fine workmanship, seated astride a gigantic toad, of 
 the extinct species known as the C Mr other ium or Lahyrinthodon^ 
 whose foot-prints have been found on the American Continent, 
 the head-dress of this figure is remarkable, consisting of a 
 cornuted hood covering the shoulders and back ; long ornamented 
 lappets, pectoral decorated with fruit and flowers, and sandals 
 of pecuhar form. The face is expressive of power and determi- 
 nation, and is said by the Mexican Antiquaries to symbohze the 
 mysterious propitiation of the toad. 
 
 58, 59 Two seated figures, wearing cornuted head-dresses with wing- 
 like appendages ; one supports a snake across his knees. Both have 
 their faces tattooed similar to the Amoco of the New Zealanders. 
 
 60 A bifrontal idol in a kneeling position, a,nd beneath him a large 
 
 scull. The lower limbs are peculiar, appearing as if the skin 
 had been removed. The front face has no lower jaw, but 
 large lion-like teeth, in this respect resembHng the Hindoo god 
 Narasingliavatara. The back face is similar to the New 
 Zealand masks. 
 
 *»* This idol is supposed to be the messenger of disease and death. 
 
 61 Squatting figure with grotesque mask-lilce face. 
 
 62 An idol of the same class as No. 34, It was found at Huehvetoca. 
 
14 
 
 63 A goat-faced image in a kneeling attitude. 
 
 64 An image of Huitziiopotchtli, the war-god of the Toltecs. This 
 
 hero was always represented crested with the head of an eagle. 
 His right hand sustains a round buckler and a bundle of 
 feathered arrows. On his left arm rests the Mexican weapon 
 called Miquahuilt. One of his feet is beaked hke a bird, 
 indicative of swiftness. Before him is placed an offering of a 
 buckler and arrows. 
 
 The Miquahuilt was a weapon composed of a stout club of wood, 
 into the sides of which square and sharpened pieces of flint or 
 ohsidian were fastened at equal distances. It is described by 
 Acosta as a most formidable weapon, and he declares that he had 
 seen the scull of a horse cleft in twain by one of them at a 
 single blow. 
 
 65 A female figure, her head surmounted with a plume ; she is seated 
 
 on a plinth, at the back of which is crouched an animal resem- 
 bling the Kylin of the Chinese. 
 
 66 A very singular compound group. The upper figure is in the act of 
 
 devouring some object. His legs pass over the shoulders and 
 rest on the knees of the second figure, whose proniinent eye- 
 balls indicate agony of an intense character, and whose haunches 
 are fashioned into a head or mask, having indications of the 
 effects of physical suffering. Above this head, and forming the 
 back of the second figure, is another mask partly concealed by 
 a hood. From Huehuetoca. 
 
 Q^jr* This group appears to partake of the symbolical nature 
 of No. 60. 
 
 67 A compound group of several heads, the upper one resembling a 
 
 scull. The larger face is of a hideous character, and has two 
 snakes passing transversely over the bridge of the nose. An 
 enormous open mouth displays a formidable row of teeth. The 
 ornaments composing the seat and head-gear are of a columnar 
 and architectural character. 
 68, 69, 70 Similar figures to the preceding ; No. 70, being the reverse 
 
 side only of No, 67. 
 71, 72 Two war idols, plumed, and armed with spear and quiver of 
 
 arrows. From Huehuetoca. 
 73 Human figure, clothed in the skin of a serpent, the head forming a 
 
 hood. The feet rest upon the coils of the monster. 
 74, 75 Two small figures, seated. 
 76 Small idol, the face of the sam_e character as No. 60. 
 77, 78 Two small seated figures, the second one in the attitude m which 
 the Aztecs buried their dead 
 
 The practice of inhumation among the Mexicans Aborigines, 
 was so different from the rest of mankind, and so universal among 
 them, as to constitute another means of identifying them as part 
 of a single and peculiar race. They buried their dead in a sitting 
 posture, the legs pressed against the stomach, the arms also bent 
 against the chest, and the chin supported on the palms of the 
 hands. Earthenware pots and vases were frequently deposited at 
 their feet. 
 
 V 
 
15 
 
 79 An image of a prince or chief, in a superb dress, holding an idol (each 
 
 of a different character) on his knees, and seated on a throne 
 composed of human figures and sculls. This is evidently a por- 
 trait, but all the accessories appear to be symbolical. 
 
 80 A small, but well-executed figure, in a sitting posture. The head is 
 
 covered with a high plumed bonnet, and round the neck is a 
 decorative chaplet. 
 
 81 A seated human figure, clothed in a grotesque style. The head is 
 
 concealed by a mask of singular character, and the arms and 
 hands enveloped in skins of serpents. It holds before it another 
 mask of a compound character. This figure appears to be 
 analogous with the "Mystery-man" of the North American 
 tribes. 
 
 82 Small seated figure, with hands clasped on the breast 
 
 83 A crawling human figure, the chin resting on the hand. The neck 
 
 collar is pecuhar, and the hair is arranged in a form not usual. 
 
 84 A High Priest of the Ophite worship, seated. Two serpents rest 
 
 upon his knees, and two descend from his shoulders. This 
 figure is evidently a portrait. 
 
 *#• It is worthy of note thai in this collection there appears to be a 
 series of portraits of pontiff- r^hiefs, with the symbols of their worship. 
 
 85 A seated figure of black pottery, of a pecuhar fabric and style. 
 
 86 A black squatting figure, in cornuted mask of demoniacal expression, 
 
 the tongue protruding and the eyes painted red. A lizard is 
 crawling up the breast, and round it winds a serpent. 
 
 *#* The black figures in this collection exhibit a marked and dis- 
 tinct character from all the others ; and it is believed that they are 
 the idols of some conquered nation, which have been preserved as 
 trophies of victory. It is on record, that the Mexicans kept the 
 divinities of those people whom they had overcome, in wooden 
 cages (as if in prison) near their temples. 
 
 87 A figure, which appears to have served as a vessel for incense. It 
 
 represents an Andro-Sphynx, the hands resting on the feet, the 
 head diademed and winged. There is a disc on each cheek, 
 but whether this v/as an illusion to the sun (of which the Sphynx 
 among the Egyptians was emblematic) is uncertam. This 
 figure bears a striking resemblance to the winged deities of 
 Persepolis. 
 
 88 A black squatting idol, crested with a lizard. 
 
 89 A kneeling figure, with a dog-like head, the eyes formed of obsidian. 
 
 A snake hangs over each shoulder. 
 
 90 A large black idol in the sepulchral attitude (see note to 77 & 78) 
 
 the eyes and mouth coloured red. It is considered as personifying 
 an evil principle. 
 
 91 An erect female figure, probably a portrait, highly interesting as a 
 
 specimen of costume. 
 
 92 A kneeling figure, with face Hke an eagle, and high turretted 
 
 head-dress. 
 
16 
 
 93 Seated figure of a war-god, with bow and quiver, plumed head-dress 
 
 and long tresses. On each side is the figure of a small priest as 
 a supporter. 
 
 94 Idol surrounded by snakes and lizards ; the inter-coiled tails forming 
 
 a spire above the head. 
 
 95 A black idol somewhat similar to No. 88, but with a lizard on the 
 
 breast. 
 
 96 A human-headed quadruped, crouched in an attitude of subjection. 
 
 Bound its neck is a collar to which is attached a bridle, held by 
 a human figure squatted on its back. 
 
 97 An eagle-headed divinity, surmounted by a plumed human head. 
 98, 99 Two black squatting images, of a peculiar style of art. 
 
 100 Small idol, seated on a coiled serpent. 
 
 101 The " Goddess of Fecundity." She holds an infant in front ; and on 
 * each side is the oriental Kylin. 
 
 102 A squatting figure in a sphynx-like attitude, with mitred head-dress, 
 
 on the back of which is displayed the image of a priest with his 
 head downward and limbs extended ; below, and forming the 
 back of the main figure, is a huge grotesque mask. 
 
 103 A small kneeling figure of a priestess. 
 
 104 A priestess, seated, holding a dove or pigeon with both hands. 
 
 She is clad in long drapery which conceals the feet. The platform 
 on which she is placed is circular, and surrrounded by a serpent. 
 
 105 An idol, seated, and holding some kind of fruit in her hand. A 
 
 twisted band encircles her brow, and her mantle is formed of the 
 skin of a human victim. 
 
 106 A cross-legged squatting figure, most probably of the Moco tribe ; 
 
 wearing a high mitre-like head dress, and the dress apparently 
 composed of feathers. 
 107, 108 A pair of globular-shaped figures, in squatting position. 
 
 109 A beautiful and rare figure, which may be called the Mexican 
 
 Laocoon. Four serpents have entwined him in their folds, two 
 having seized him on the arms and two on the breast. On each 
 shoulder is a hzard. The expression of agony in the countenance 
 is admirable, and it no doubt represents a victim to Ophite 
 worship. From Huehuetoca. 
 
 110 A seated figure with turretted head dress. 
 
 111 An owl-faced divinity, riding on a turtle. 
 
 112 A squatting figure, with snake coiling round it. 
 
 113 A seated figure, supporting with both hands a huge grotesque mask ; 
 
 the eyes are of obsidian and deeply set. 
 
 114 A squatting figure, with remarkable open-barred head dress ; in 
 
 each hand a roll, possibly of tobacco. 
 
 115 A globular figure in a singular posture; the head-dress having 
 
 long side lappets. 
 
 116 A Typhonian figure, of a very early period. 
 
 ' 117 A priestess, with idol in front, which she appears as if exhibiting. 
 From Huehuetoca. 
 
17 
 
 118 A companion figure to Ko. 73, 
 
 119 A kneeling figure, holding in Ms right hand a small bearded head, 
 
 120 A female figure, kneeling, wearing an ornamental covering on her 
 
 breast, and rich semicircular diadem on her head, surmounted 
 with a disc. 
 
 121 An idol with crowned head, wearing a necklace and short slashed 
 
 vest, holding a snake, entwined round the body, on his right knee, 
 
 122 A crowned female figure, kneeling, painted black and red. 
 
 123, 124 Two globular squatted figures ; varying in their head-dress. 
 
 125 Similar to No. 110, but of larger dimensions. 
 
 126 A seated figure, with feathered head ornament, a lion's head on 
 
 each thigh, a head upon the breast, and a lizard crawling down 
 the back. 
 
 127 A female figure, seated, highly ornamented, her hands crossed upon 
 
 the breast, and a crown upon her head. 
 
 128 A black female figure, with high feathered crown upon her head, 
 
 the hands bent forward. 
 
 129 A highly ornamented idol, with the skin of an animal suspended 
 
 from the head, and hanging down the back. From Huehuetoca. 
 
 130 A most singular female idol, with a sort of canopy over the head, 
 
 on the top of which is seated a small figure. In each hand is a 
 baton, one plain, the other surmounted with a crested head. 
 
 131 The " God of Silence," personified as a grotesque squatting idoi, 
 
 with long snout, and a bar or muzzle between the jaws. 
 
 132 A Duende or witch, A toad is seen on each arm, 
 
 133 Female idol, with a lizard across the stomach. 
 
 134 A female idol, (or priestess) with kilt and head-dress of feathers. 
 
 She is seated on a base, ornamented with hieroglyphical 
 ornaments. 
 
 135 An idol, seated on two coiled snakes forming a pedestal. 
 
 13G A lion-faced idol, sitting upon a turtle, and holding a snake with 
 both hands, Down the back are festoons of snakes. From 
 Huehuetoca. 
 
 137 A curious rotund female idol, with snakes coiled over each shoulder, 
 
 138 A sitting figure, with the right hand supporting the head, which is 
 
 enclosed within the jaws of a monstrous animal. 
 
 139 A kneeling female figure. 
 
 140 A grotesque squatting figure, forming a treble pitos or whistle. 
 
 141 A small flat idol of the Penates (or Tepitoton) class. 
 
 142 A large idol, with the eldows resthig on the knees, the hand 
 
 sui>porting the head, (the sepulchral position) and with a curiously 
 decorated tiara. 
 
 143 Female suckling an infant. 
 
 144 Hump-backed kneehng figure, with ornament suspended from a 
 
 chain encircling the neck. 
 
 145 Kneehng figure, probably a priest, v/ith a curious breastplate. 
 
 146 Squatting figure, in a plumed cap ; on the back is a large toad, 
 
 c 
 
18 
 
 147 A large red female figure, holding in her arms a Tepitoton, pro- 
 
 bably representative of a deceased ancestor. 
 
 This figure, and many others of the hollow ones, contain small 
 balls or pellets, said to be made of the pulverized bones of human 
 victims. 
 
 148 A figure seated on the ground, in the Indian attitude of repose. 
 
 Small human heads form the shoulder-pieces. Most probably 
 the Lidio Triste, or " Sad Indian." 
 
 149 A sitting figure, holding a truncheon, and wearmg a high cap sur- 
 
 mounted with a feather. 
 
 150 A curious figure, connected with snake worship, from the symbols 
 
 surrounding it. From Huehuetoca, 
 
 151 Flat upright figure of the Tepitoton order. 
 
 152 A large red idol with hands pressed to the breast, in a sitting pos- 
 
 ture. Head surmounted with double plume of feathers. 
 
 153 Figure in the sepulchral attitude, with human heads on the 
 
 shoulders. 
 
 154 An erect figure in a kind of horned mitre ; in front is a small 
 
 Penates-like figure, above which is a projecting head. 
 
 155 to 159 Five small figures, in various attitudes, forming Whistles. 
 
 No. 156 is a double figure, placed back to back. 
 
 160 A sitting idol, probably connected with Sun-worship, with a lofty 
 
 plumed head-dress, and grasping a truncheon surmounted with a 
 human head. There is a singular variety in the costume of this 
 figure, inasmuch as he is represented wearing trowsers! On 
 each side, at his feet, is a worshipper, one in the act of supphca- 
 tion, the other in an attitude of attention. 
 
 161 A dark-coloured female idol, in a kneehng posture ; with orna- 
 
 ments of a hieroglyphic character impressed on the breast, 
 
 *^* An intelligent old Indian informed the proprietor of this col- 
 lection, that this figure was the " Diosa de partos," or Goddess 
 who presided over childbirth. 
 
 162 A kneeling female figure, her dress elaborately ornamented, both 
 
 behind and in front. 
 
 163 A figure in a remarkable position. The body is bent backward, 
 
 and supported by the hands. Two snakes rest on the breast, 
 their tails being coiled round the legs of the figure, (victim ?) 
 164, 165 Two rotund figures, one red and the other black, (both with 
 pellets inside.) The former has his hands resting on the toes. 
 
 166 Large rotund figm-e of a female in a kneehng attitude, with head 
 
 dress nearly similar to No. 147. 
 
 167 A red seated figure, with a laughing expression of countenance. 
 
 A diadem or mitre of peculiar construction surmounts the head. 
 
 168 Kneeling female figure, with infant erect in front of her. 
 
 169 Small black erect figure, with a child (or Tepitoton) held before her. 
 
 170 A squat figure of rotund form, the legs twisted under him. 
 
 171 A hideous-looking idol, feeding a serpent with a toad. It probably 
 
 represents the guardian of a temple devoted to serpent worsliip. 
 This figure hke No. 160, wears trowsers. 
 
19 
 
 172 A globular figure of an animal whose head resembles that of a 
 
 racoon. Its tail is curled up behind, and the fore-feet rest beside 
 the hind ones. 
 
 173 Red kneeling figure of a female, the dress striped in parallel lines. 
 
 174 Ked female figure, kneeling on one knee. 
 
 175 A large seated figure in the sepulchral attitude, the physiognomy 
 
 very singular ; the head shaven, and a snake hanging from the 
 head down the back, 
 
 176 Large globular figure, hands resting on the knees ; collar on the 
 
 breast, and long lappets over the ears. 
 
 177 A figure kneeling on one Imee. 
 
 178, 179 Two small squat figures, in attitudes of repose, 
 180, 181 Two small figures, From Huehuetoca. 
 
 182 A red figure, sitting, with canopy head-dress, and back and front 
 
 ornamented. 
 
 183 A red squatting figure, with high head-dress, and holdmg a 
 
 truncheon in his left hand, 
 
 184 A rotund fignire, sitting, the lappets of the head-dress hanging below 
 
 the knees, and the feet crossed. 
 
 185 A figure, seated, the hands resting on the knees. 
 
 186 A figure similar to last, but with a lizard extended on the breast. 
 
 187 A squatted figure with ornamented cap, and wearing a sort of cloak 
 
 188 An erect figure in ornamented dress, wearing a high conical cap. 
 
 189 A squatting figure, an image on the breast, and hollow cap with 
 
 pendant snakes. 
 
 190 A group of eight figures, nude. They probably represent a council 
 
 or " Palaver," the central figure being in the act of addressing 
 the rest, who are in various attitudes indicative of attention. 
 
 191 A squatting idol with large protruding nose and tongue ; the collar, 
 
 armlets, and lower part of the dress much ornamented. On the 
 head is a species of canopy surmounted by feathers. 
 
 192 A curious red figure seated on the coils of a snake on a broad base. 
 
 On the head is a sort of triangular cap. 
 
 193 Two flat figures, somewhat resembhng each other, but differing in 
 
 head-dress. 
 
 194 A semi-globular figure, in squatting position, in ornamented dress, 
 
 holding a child before it. This may be compared with No. 101. 
 
 195 An idol in a sitting posture, the hands resting on the knees, an 
 
 animal's head on the stomach ; round the neck is a chain with a 
 pendant ornament, and on the head a sort of crown. 
 
 196 A figure seated on a pedestal, holding a snake coiled round the 
 
 arms in each hand, and two other snakes over the shoulders ; 
 an ornament is pendant from the breast. 
 
 197 A female squatted figure in smgular coiffure ; the hands pressed 
 
 upon the stomach, 
 
 198 A figure in a sitting posture, in a peculiar sort of cap. 
 
 199 A singular and highly ornamented globular figure. 
 
 200 An extraordinary vase, the front composed of a human figure, the 
 
 face supported by the two arms ; the open mouth forms the 
 spout, and a large lizard the handle, 
 
20 
 
 201 A red figure, kneeling, the chin resting on the hands, 
 
 202 A squatting figure, over the head is an animal resembling a dog, 
 20d An oval figure with most singularly narrow face, the arms un- 
 
 nsually long, one resting on the right knee, the other round 
 the left leg, the breast and back much ornamented. 
 
 204 A large figure seated on a pedestal, representing from its attributes 
 either a warrior or war god ; on the head is a bi-cornuted crown, 
 long lappets descend over the ears, the body is covered with a 
 rich vestment, it has armlets and bracelets, the hands are resting 
 on the knees from which descend bands that fasten the sandals 
 on the feet ; on the back is hanging a sort of cloak that partially 
 covers a large round shield. 
 
 205, 206 A pair of red figures in a squatting posture, the male with his 
 hands resting on the knees, the female with a snake entwined 
 round each leg. 
 
 207 A figure sitting on an elevated chair or throne, supported by four 
 
 legs terminating in spreading feet, the upper part of the two hinder 
 ones representing the snouts of swine ; in the right hand the 
 figure holds a truncheon, and the dignified expression of the 
 countenance evidently denotes authority ; on the head is a high 
 cap cleft in the centre, the ornaments of which rest upon the 
 shoulders. This is in all probability a portrait of some high 
 official personage. 
 
 208 A curious globular figure, the face protruding out of the mouth of a 
 
 lizard, fixed upon the back, the lower jaw of which is held up 
 by the two hands of the figure 
 
 209 A large squatting figure wearing a crown, out of which issues a 
 
 flame, from the neck is suspended an ornament; over the shoulders 
 are two snakes which meet on the breast and hold a lion -like 
 animal. Snakes are also entwined round the legs. This idol is 
 Mictlanteucli, the " God of Hell." 
 
 210 A globular figure in a kneeling posture, one hand on the breast, 
 
 the other on the chin. 
 
 211 A similar globular female figure, seated on its legs which are bent 
 
 in opposite directions ; a species of moth is on the breast. 
 
 212 A large black idol in a squatting position, the right hand placed 
 
 on its ear, the left on its knee ; the front much ornamented. 
 
 213 A large black idol in ornamented cap with pendant lappets, the 
 
 hands are pressed round the knees upon which is a sort of disc, 
 a band with clasp in the centre crosses the breast and fastens a 
 quiver full of arrows on the back. This figure is doubtless a 
 war idol. 
 
 214 A female black idol in squattmg posture, the front richly orna- 
 
 mented, and between the knees on which the hands are resting, 
 is a circle of rays, connectmg her probably with the worship of 
 the sun. 
 
 215 A large black idol with feathered head-dress, on the knees are 
 
 radiated bosses, in each hand it holds a truncheon, and between 
 the knees is a grotesque figure. 
 
21 
 
 216 Another black idol with high feathered crown on its head, an orna- 
 
 ment crosses the chest, and in the right hand it holds a long 
 fruit. 
 
 217 A female black idol in squatting position, the body is cut across in 
 
 stripes and divided down the centre ; the expression denotes 
 suffering. 
 
 218 A globular black idol, the chest and back ornamented, the eyes are 
 
 very prominent, the left hand is held to the ear, the right one 
 is across the breast. 
 
 219 A black idol with upturned face, the mouth is open showing two 
 
 rows of large teeth, and the lower jaw is supported by both 
 hands. 
 
 220 A black idol in sitting posture, on the head is a feathered cap with 
 
 ornamented lappets descending on the chest. 
 
 221 A remarkably flat-faced black figure, sitting, with rich ornaments 
 
 over its chest ; the hands are resting on the knees. 
 
 222 A globular figure squatted, somewhat resembhng a monkey, the 
 
 tail curled upon the back. 
 
 223 A globular black squatting figure, an ornament is suspended over 
 
 the chest, on the right shoulder is a rose, the left hand is placed 
 upon the lower jaw 
 
 224 A grotesque grinning figure, with a lizard over the right shoulder, 
 
 and holding a Penates in front. 
 
 225 A globular squatting figure, holding on its breast a sort of sceptre. 
 
 226 A fragment, said to be a " Diosa de partes." 
 
 227 A flat female figure, holdmg a crowned Penates in her right arm. 
 
 MISCELLANEOUS OBJECTS. 
 
 228, 229 Two aboriginal skulls, Toltec or Aztec, the latter probably 
 that of a female. 
 
 230 A sepulchral mask of black terra-cotta, an object of great rarity. 
 
 231 Thuribellum, or incense pot ; the sides perforated. 
 
 232 A curious head of an unlinown animal. One side of this retains 
 
 the original red glaze, a remarkable feature ui early Mexican 
 pottery. 
 
 233 Human head, a fragment of a large statue. 
 
 234, 235 Two small obehsks of black pottery, having ladder-like stairs 
 in front. On the summit of each is seated a cornuted divinity. 
 
 236 Model of a Teocalh, (i. e. " House of God,") or Mexican Temple, 
 consisting of three stories above the basement. The door is 
 reached by a flight of ten steps. The wide platform on the 
 summit was the place where human victims were sacrificed, and 
 at such a height could be witnessed by the whole population. 
 
 This object is one of the rarest of Mexican Antiquities, and 
 great i egret was expressed, on its removal from the country, by 
 the Curators of the National Museum of Mexico. 
 
22 
 
 ■237 Another obelisk, nearly similar to No. 234 and 235, but having a 
 figure squatting on either side. 
 
 238 A squatted hon-like animal with annular ear ornaments, and 
 
 radiated crest. 
 
 239 Mask which has formed the upper part or head of a large vase ; 
 
 the eyes are of obsidian. A hzard is issuing from the mouth 
 and the handle consists of a serpent. This fine vase was 
 smashed in its transit to this country, but the fragments are in 
 the proprietor's possession. 
 
 240 Sceptre or baton in terra-cotta, probably a sepulchral emblem of 
 
 authority. It is hollow and has been mounted on a wooden staff. 
 
 241 Mask of a divinity, intended for suspension. For a head very 
 
 similar see No. 67. 
 
 242 Fragmentary head from a fine idol. The eyes are unusually 
 
 prominent, and the physiognomy decidedly Aztec. On each side 
 is a snake encirchng the ears. 
 
 243 Fragmentary head in terra-cotta, of the sabre-toothed tiger, an 
 
 animal unlmown prior to the discovery of the American 
 Continent. 
 
 244, 245 Two aboriginal skulls of different races. No. 245 is supposed 
 to be that of a female, from the circumstance that with it were 
 found spindles, small cups, and some Penates. 
 
 STONE OBJECTS. 
 
 246 A snake coiled round a human body, the head issuing from the 
 
 mouth of the reptile. This object is considered to be of high 
 antiquity and considerable rarity. 
 
 247 An idol which has a remarkable resemblance to the stone sculptures 
 
 of Egypt, the heavy square-formed head-hress being very similar 
 to the class so frequently met with on the deities of Thebes and 
 Memphis. 
 
 248 An idol of the same general characteristics as the preceding, but 
 
 more elaborately ornamented. The head is surmounted by a 
 feathered snake, and the hands rest upon two reptiles of the 
 same description. 
 
 249 Standing figure of a female, of the same Egyptian-like character 
 
 as the two last. 
 
 250 Another figure, of the same square contour as the preceding, but 
 
 having a human head between the bended knees. 
 
 251 Human head with obsidian eyes, of very early fabric, and not im- 
 
 probably a portrait. 
 
 252 Human head in white marble, a most remarkable object. 
 
 253 Seated figure in white marble, which, with the others of these early 
 
 figures, has a great similitude to the sculptures of Egypt. It 
 was found beneath the foundations of a house in Mexico. 
 
23 
 
 254 A very remarkable squatting figure in alabaster, its large head 
 supported by the hands pressed over the ears. A cape covers 
 • the shoulders. 
 
 255, 256 Two mullers for pounding drugs or spices. One is in the 
 shape of the head of a goose, the other of a squat human figure. 
 Both are perfectly Egyptian in their character. They are 
 formed of volcanic-stone. 
 
 257 A squat figure, the upper part shewing the head of a monkey 
 
 within the wide-spread jaws of a hear. A rare specimen. 
 
 258 A flat crouching figure, with disproportionate head. Very early 
 
 fabric. 
 
 259 A kneeling figure, without ornament. 
 
 260 A seated figure with very flat head. 
 
 261 Square shaped human figure, kneeling, with hands pressed in front. 
 
 On the back a lizard is extended. 
 
 262 Flat stone, sculptured with a male figure on one side, and female 
 
 on the other : their heads coronetted. 
 
 263 A stone figure, sitting, of volcanic matter, much worn. 
 
 264 Two figures in pumice stone, apparently dancing, holding each 
 
 others hands. 
 
 265 A volcanic stone, much worn, with a figure on either side. 
 
 266 A small stone figure, sitting, a cross is on the back. 
 
 267 A volcanic stone, forming a fish's head. 
 
 268 A squatting figure, on a pedestal ; with monkey-shaped head, 
 
 much worn. 
 
 ANIMALS AND REPTILES. 
 
 269 A squirrel, with eyes of obsidian, unlike the European, except in 
 
 its full spread tail. 
 
 270 An animal, squatting, most probably the Perro Mudo, or " Silent 
 
 Dog." The nose is remarkable, being undivided, and the tongue 
 seems too large for the mouth, hence the inability to bark. 
 Dumb dogs were common at the time of the Conquest, and 
 though they may have been destroyed for food, they are yet 
 found, it is said, among the Apoche Indians. 
 
 271 A Pexe lagarto, or Alligator-fish; animals nearly similar are 
 
 found in the lakes of the lowlands. 
 
 272 A black snake, covered with scales 
 
 273 A priest with a cleft cap, holding a truncheon in his right hand, and 
 
 seated across a huge snake, w^ith a human head upon its breast. 
 
 274 A large black snake, coiled on the back of a turtle, the head 
 
 extending across forms a handle ; in its mouth it holds the 
 turtle's head, while its own coils forms a vase. 
 
 275 A coiled scaly snake, a young one issuing from its mouth, around 
 
 its neck is a collar inscribed with hieroglyphics. 
 
24 
 
 276 A huge scaly snake, coiled — the Boa Constrictor, or (as called by the 
 Aborigines) Temacuilcahuilia, on account of its great strength, 
 the word signifying " fighting with five men." From Ixcapuralco. 
 
 277, 278, 279 Three coral snakes, called in the country, " Barbers 
 poles," they are coiled upon turtles, their own heads forming 
 handles, while in their mouths they hold the heads of the turtles. 
 The tail of one forms a whistle. 
 
 280 A black coiled snake. 
 
 281 A coiled snake with singularly-formed head, and the tail termi- 
 
 nating in a whistle. 
 
 282 A large coiled snake with three heads, the larger one with eyes of 
 
 obsidian, and the other two projecting from the neck. 
 
 283 A red coiled snake, with long forked protruding tongue. 
 
 284 Small red snake; remarkable as having no scales. 
 
 285 Black coiled snake ; tongue bent under the lower jaw. 
 
 236 Human figure encircled by the coils of a snake, his head is within 
 the reptile's mouth, but his hands and feet are at liberty. 
 
 287 Large black coiled snake with enormous head, and open jaws. 
 
 Similar to No. 276. 
 
 288 Pretty red snake, curiously coiled. 
 
 289 A black snake, with head of remarkable form, 
 
 290 A very handsome black snake, with red head which is erect, and 
 
 the open jaws displaying a row of formidable teeth. 
 
 291 A small coiled snake. 
 
 292 A large coiled snake. 
 
 293 A large black coiled snake, the neck stamped with several rows 
 
 of hieroglyphics. On the upper coil is seated a priest in cloven 
 cap or mitre, and sacerdotal robe. 
 
 294 A light-coloured snake, with obsidian eyes, and three rows of 
 
 sacred hieroglyphics on the neck. A priest is seated on its coils 
 and caressing its head, having just fed it with a small animal of 
 the frog kind. 
 
 295 Another coiled snake and priestess, with hieroglyphics on the neck. 
 
 296 A coiled snake between two priests, who appear to be performing 
 
 some sacred ceremony. 
 
 The frequent combination of priests and snakes, affords 
 evidence of the great popularity and prevalence of serpent worship. 
 
 297 A coiled red snake of the same species as No. 281. Several 
 
 snakelets are crawling over it. 
 
 298 A very beautifully modelled red snake. 
 
 299 An alligator, with serrated back. 
 
 300 An alligator. 
 
 301 A crocodile devouring a serpent. 
 
 302 An animal intended to represent (according to "Norman's 
 
 Yucatan,") the Iguana, but is more probably the " Chlamyphorus 
 truncatus," now so rare on the American Continent, as to be 
 regarded as a curiosity. It was fi.rst described by Dr. Harlan 
 in the Ann. of the New York Lyceum, p. 245. It is painted 
 in black and red. 
 
25 
 
 303 A compound Sphynx-like animal, half human, half quadruped, in a 
 crouching position, with something like a saddle over the back. 
 An animal of this form is described by Norman in his Travels 
 in Yucatan," as a traditional representation of the germ and 
 origin of all created things, and was worshipped as the " God of 
 Harvests and Fruits." The union of the human and the 
 quadruped indicates intelligence and strength. 
 
 304, 305 A pair of armadillos. One is banded and with a long tail. 
 
 306 An animal of the turtle tribe, with a lizard and two snakes on the 
 back. 
 
 307, 308 A pair of tortoises. 
 
 309 A tortoise in black terra-cotta. 
 
 310 A small red tortoise. 
 
 311 A black banded tortoise. 
 
 312 A black toad on which a human figure is seated. A similar type 
 
 exists in the Pantheon of the Chinese. 
 
 313 A red tortoise 
 
 314 A small well-made black toad. 
 
 315 An armadillo. 
 
 316 A small red toad, 
 
 317 A red turtle or tortoise, with four human heads on its back, 
 
 318 A large black toad, 
 
 319 A non-descript animal, somewhat resembling the sea horse. 
 
 320 A fine model of the Pipal toad, with a loop on the breast for 
 
 suspension. 
 
 321 A large model of the fish toad, 
 
 322 A large black toad on which a human figure is squatted. Resem- 
 
 bhng No. 312. 
 
 323 A gigantic black toad. 
 
 *0* This may be possibly a traditional representation of the extinct 
 Batrachian, known as the Chirotherium or Labyrinthodon, whose 
 footprints have been discovered in the red sandstone of Pennsyl- 
 vania 
 
 324 A lizard, very well-modelled. 
 
 VASES. 
 
 325 to 361 Thirty-seven small cups, vases, and vessels, for burning 
 copal, of various forms and devices, most of them are of sin- 
 gularly grotesque shape, and all much ornamented ; some are 
 supported on human sauatted figures, some on the feet of reptiles, 
 some have handles formed of snakes and lizards ; many of them 
 were found with human remains, and doubtless contamed some 
 propitiatory offering. 359 stands on four feet, has four Penates, 
 or small idols on its sides, and is painted blue, which renders it 
 particularly uncommon. 
 
 D 
 
26 
 
 362 A small conical cup, the rim formed of two snakes ; this cup is 
 
 painted blue, and is one of the only three objects of that colour 
 in the collection. 
 
 363 An oval vase standmg on three feet, in the form of cascabels, it is 
 
 highly ornamented, and around it are human faces, penates, and 
 idols. 
 
 364 A large vase supported on four reversed heads as feet, it has three 
 
 rows of ornament, each consisting of eight busts, the upper ones 
 crowned. 
 
 365 A very large black cinerary urn, supported on four claws as feet, 
 
 between which are foijr hzards, the ornaments are composed of 
 various busts, and in the upper row the sacred seal is introduced. 
 
 366 A vase supported on four feet in the shape of penates, around it 
 
 are two large and two small heads. 
 
 367 A high vase on four claws as feet, the indented ornament is very 
 
 uncommon, and strongly resembles the paintings still to be seen 
 on the rocks in various parts of the American Continent. 
 Squier's in his late work, dwells much upon it. The cross is a 
 conspicuous object on this specimen. 
 
 •»* The sign of the cross was of frequent occurrence among the 
 sacred symbols of South America. 
 
 368 A large globular black funeral urn on six feet formed of human 
 
 heads, it is entirely covered with incuse ornaments and six pro- 
 jecting masks, and a long snake is coiled round on the rim. 
 
 369 A beautiful pitcher-shaped libatory and elaborately ornamented 
 
 vase, on the base and around it are human faces, two snakes 
 form the handle, at the bottom of which appear two rows of 
 hieroglyphic characters. 
 
 370 A very singular mug formed of an animal resembling a large 
 
 mouthed quadruped, the breast is decorated with pendant 
 ornaments. 
 
 371 A large pitcher-shaped vase, on the centre of the body is a head 
 
 of the sun, with a line of hieroglyphics on either side, the crown 
 on the top forming the lip, the handle is composed of two snakes, 
 and the whole is surrounded by busts and penates, 
 
 372 A globular black vase with a snake for pedestal, on the body are 
 
 two figures apparently half-female, half-fish, and another with a 
 lizard biting the under lip. 
 
 373 to 381 Nine small vases of various shapes and differently orna- 
 
 mented, the top of the rim of 377 is formed of a turtle upon a 
 squatted figure. 
 
 382 A very curious vase, formed of the hollow bodies of two human 
 
 figures on a pedestal, two snakes pendant with heads downward 
 on either side. 
 
 383 A singular vase, the lid being composed of a serpent's head, while 
 
 the body of it makes the handle ; the head is perforated to 
 receive the liquid ; around the vase is a head in feathered cap, 
 and at the sides are two turtles. 
 
27 
 
 384 A very large and beautiful cylindrical red vase, supported on the 
 
 feet of six penates, whose hands hold a branch of some shrub ; 
 it is encircled by figures and animals, resembling the Chinese 
 Kylin, and the raised rim is formed of fom^ snakes entwined. 
 
 385 A large pitcher-shaped vase, on the centre of which is a spread 
 
 head of the sim crowned, on the hp are six penates ; two snakes 
 form the handle, having on either side the sacred seal. From 
 Huehuetoca. 
 
 386 A large pitcher-shaped libatory vase, with head in front like pre- 
 
 ceding, on the sides are two priests full-robed, holding in their 
 hands ears of corn ; two serpents form the handle, on either 
 side of which is a circular ornament. 
 
 387 A pitcher-shaped four-footed vase, around which are four warriors 
 
 apparently dancing ; the handle is formed of a lizard. 
 
 388 A pitcher-shaped vase formed of a human squatting figure, on the 
 
 breast is a penates, and across the neck and over the shoulders 
 is an ornamental band. 
 
 389 A black libatory vase, richly covered with hieroglyphic and other 
 
 ornaments, the spout is partially covered, and two large snakes 
 form the handle ; nearly similar to 369. 
 
 390 A high black cinerary vase on four claws, it is very richly 
 
 covered with busts, the sacred seal, idols, and fruits or flowers. 
 
 391 A splendid black pitcher-shaped hbatory vase, on the body is a 
 
 representation of the sun, with a hzard supporting the chin ; on 
 the sides are many idols, two of them in curious head-dress, one 
 holding in his hands a sort of sickle and three banded hoops, 
 two snakes coiled near the sun's face support the lip of the vase, 
 their heads projecting beyond it. 
 
 392 A beautiful pitcher-shaped hbatory vase, the figure of the sun 
 
 forms its centre ornament, the body of it is covered with idols, 
 penates, and the sacred seal, two of which are also on the lip, 
 the handle is formed, as ua preceding ones, of two snakes. 
 
 393 A singular two-handled brazier, or zanafe, on two semicircular 
 
 supports, it seems to be covered on the body and rim with 
 hieroglyphical characters. 
 
 394 A black ovate vase, the chief ornaments of which are a snake 
 
 entwined around, and a hzard. There are also many figures 
 and penates. 
 
 395 A handsomely-formed brown libatory vase, somewhat resembhng 
 
 389 ; on the base are two sacred seals and two heads of idols ; 
 on the body of the vase are divers heads and the sacred seal. 
 The spout is partially covered, and the handle consists of two 
 snakes with projecting forked tongues. 
 896 A remarkably fine two-handled vase, supported on three eagles' 
 heads for feet ; the figures in rehef on either side are exceed- 
 ingly bold and prominent, and surrounded by fruits', ears of corn, 
 and cakes ; this very rare vase undoubtedly served for first-fruit 
 offerings. 
 
28 
 
 397 A large libatory vase, elaborately ornamented, standing on three 
 
 scrolls for feet, it has also the sacred seal, and two snakes form 
 the handle. 
 
 398 An exceedingly rare double-beaked vase, resting on a coiled snake, 
 
 it has two handles and is entirely covered with various orna- 
 ments, some of them equally fine and uncommon. 
 
 399 An extraordinary vase, of fine bold outline, consisting of a globular 
 
 body supported on three turtles' heads, the front of which repre- 
 sents the bust of a female deity, whose elaborate head-dress 
 forms the spout. The -neck of the vase is encircled by two 
 snakes, the heads of which rest on the shoulders of the figure, 
 while the handle is formed of one of larger dimensions. On the 
 breast of the figure is a curious heraldic badge, consisting of an 
 oval shield charged with a lizard which rests upon the breast of 
 a double-headed eagle with expanded wings. The shoulders 
 have epaulets, and the arms bracelets ; the frontal and side pieces 
 of the head-dress are enriched with hieroglyphics, the two largest 
 branches terminating in circular medallions, are ornamented 
 with a device much resembling the Greek fret. The back and 
 sides of the vase are scored with lines, forming a sort of pattern, 
 and on each side of the body underneath the snakes' tails, is a 
 circular medallion in relief. 
 
 400 A curious grotesque vase, in the form of a duck — probably unique. 
 
 401 An oval vase resting on four coiled snakes, the figures around are 
 
 in very high relief. 
 
 402 Similar to the last, except iu the feet, but more ornamented. 
 
 403 A black pitcher-shaped vase, resting on four claws, the figures on 
 
 the body are female, and the handle is formed of a lizard. 
 
 404 A tall elegant vase, resting on four claws, each surmounted by a 
 
 head wearing a cleft cap, on the two sides and back are idols 
 differently coiffed, the lip resembles the beak of a large bird, 
 and is partially covered by a flat head not very unlike that of 
 Silenus ; this vase was probably used in propitiatory sacrifices. 
 
 405 An extraordinary black pitcher-shaped vase, resting on two claws 
 
 and the heads of two snakes, it is richly ornamented* with idols ; 
 the handle is formed of a reptile with coiled tail, from the sides 
 project two legs, from the breast two snakes, and two horns 
 issue from the head. 
 
 406 A globular pitcher, which has been curiously painted in the front 
 
 with the figure of a female ; two snakes with projecting forked 
 tongues form the handle. 
 
 407 A globular vase, resting on four heads, much ornamented. 
 
 408 A beautiful pitcher-shaped vase, elaborately ornamented, the lip 
 
 resembles the lower beak of a bird, the handle is a snake with 
 high raised head, its tongue projecting from the jaws. 
 
 409 A tall libatory vase profusely ornamented, on the front is a turtle, 
 
 at the bottom are flowers, while around are idols and the sacred 
 seal ; the top is formed of the throat and head of a large reptile, 
 open jawed, showing its gi'eat teeth and projecting tongue. 
 
29 
 
 410 A large pitcher-shaped vase resting on six inverted heads, in front 
 
 is a figure in a conical cap, the arras and legs singularly marked, 
 and on the breast a pectoral resembling the Osk of the Egyptians ; 
 two snakes and two lizards encircle the vase, while on the back 
 and around the bottom are several rows of hieroglyphic 
 characters. 
 
 411 A vase very similar to the last, except that four snakes encircle it. 
 412, 413, 414, 415 Four very curious oval vases, variously ornamented. 
 
 The bodies of the vases seem placed, as it were, on the backs 
 of human figures, each with an animal's head resembhng a cat, 
 wolf, or fox ; one has two handles. 
 
 416 A red vase which has been painted, resting on four turretted feet. 
 
 On the four sides are heads of idols. 
 
 417 A red vase on four feet, with vandyke ornaments. 
 
 418 A red vase ; on the sides arc heads in high rehef, and beneath are 
 
 penates. 
 
 419 A very singular vase, which appears to have been painted ; it rests 
 
 upon different supports, and has two handles, from under each 
 of which obtrude a human arm and leg. 
 
 420 A pitcher-shaped libatory vase ; it has a head in front, the " Sacred 
 
 Seal " on the sides, and a lizard forming the handle. 
 
 421 Another somewhat similar to the last. It rests on a coiled snake, 
 
 while two others make a handle. 
 
 422 A beautiful black oval vase, resting on the heads of four snakes, 
 
 between which a lizard is crawling. In front and behind are 
 the heads of two crowned idols, while two more Hzards form 
 the handles. 
 
 423 A black vase on four claws, over each of which is the head of an 
 
 idol. The lip resembles the lower portion of a bird's beak, 
 which is partly covered by a toad. 
 
 424 A large globular red cinerary vase, on four claws, very profusely 
 
 covered with heads of various idols, and five sacred seals 
 
 425 A superb black pitcher-shaped vase, highly ornamented ; around it 
 
 two lizards are crawling, in the centre is a figure with feather 
 band over the head. The handle is formed of three snakes, 
 the larger centre one double-headed, while two smaller ones 
 issue from it. 
 
 426 A beautiful red oval vase, standing on four claws, over each of 
 
 which is a head ; on the two sides are large idols in cleft caps, 
 while the body is profusely ornamented with idols and lizards. 
 On the surface of the rim is a zigzag or chevron. 
 
 427 A small red oval vase standing on four antelope's heads with spread 
 
 horns. On either side is a figure in a singular posture. 
 
 428 A black oval vase resting on a squatting figure, the soles of the 
 
 feet placed against each other. One hand is remarkable, being 
 without fingers. In the rim are four " pitos" or whistles. 
 
 429 A black oval vase on a squatting figure, the feet of which have 
 
 only four toes, and one hand has but four fingers. On the back 
 and front are heads of idols, one like a mask of Silenus. 
 
30 
 
 430 A large black oval vase, the body surrounded by eight warriors, 
 
 apparently dancing ; they are variously coiffed, and hold some 
 instrument in their hands. Beneath is a band of eight heads. 
 
 431 A very fine and most richly-ornamented globular vase, standing on 
 
 four inverted heads. Around the body are three rows of penates, 
 the upper row apparently crowned. This vase, the only one in 
 the collection, has a hd, the top of which is formed of a double- 
 headed figure, and in it were found the bones of an infant. 
 
 432 A tall red vase of elegant shape. It rests on four snake's heads 
 
 inverted, between which are idols, while on the body are two 
 snakes, two lizards, and four figures, placed alternately. 
 
 435, 434 A pair of cinerary vases, of handsome form ; each rests on 
 three claws, and on the back and front have the Sacred Seal ; 
 one has the handles affixed to the rim — the other on the sides. 
 The feet are hollov/, and have something deposited in each to 
 make a rattle. From Ixcopuralco 
 
 435 A black pitcher-shaped vase on four claws. The handle is sup- 
 ported by a hzard, and on the body are snakes and warrioi's, the 
 latter in plumed caps. 
 
 433 A pitcher-shaped black vase on four heads. The body is profusely 
 
 covered with idols, the hd and spout are formed of a huge 
 serpent, while two smaller ones entwine the jaws. 
 
 437 A large black pitcher-shaped libatory urn on a perforated pedestal. 
 On the body are various idols and the Sacred Seal ; a lizard, and a 
 serpent are crawhng over the rim, and a serpent forms the handle. 
 
 438, 439, 440, 441 Four most extraordinary vases — two large and 
 two smaller — resting on pedestals, around which snakes are 
 entwined, they are literally covered with figures. On the 
 largest of them is an ornamental band, then a circle of fourteen 
 figures, above them a zigzag, and over that a circle of forty-two 
 smaller figures, while four serpents are crawling over the rim. 
 On another, twenty-six small, and eleven larger idols adorn the 
 base, around which is a serpent, above it are eight heads in 
 varied coifi'ure, then a band, and over it twenty-nine more 
 figures or penates, the rim is also ornamented ; on a smaller 
 vase four snakes encircle the pedestal, on the body are nineteen 
 small penates, and twenty larger ones above them, the interior 
 of the rim is ornamented with festoons ; on the pedestal of the 
 other vase are fifteen penates, and above them a serpent, on the 
 body is a circle of sixteen figures, and above it two rows of rich 
 ornament. 
 
 442 A pitcher-shaped vase, the spout formed of the head of an animal ; 
 
 the body is covered with penates, while another, from the cap 
 of which issues a snake's head, forms the handle. 
 
 443 A handsome red vase resting on a coiled serpent, around the body 
 
 are twelve penates and several ornamental bands, in the rim are 
 four " pitos," or whistles. 
 
 444 A small vase, around which are three penates and a coiled serpent, 
 
 a portion of which forms the handle. 
 
 445 A jar resting ou a snake ; on the front is a grotescjue squatting idol. 
 
31 
 
 446 A tall elegantly-shaped vase, On the base is a zigzag scroll, above 
 
 it various penates, in front and on the back are two large figures 
 with long draperied head-dress, on the sides are two figures, one 
 in a cleft cap, the other has the left hand raised, the right resting 
 on his knee. 
 
 447 A pitcher-shaped vase. On the centre is a figure in plumed cap- 
 
 and tassels, and triple row of ornaments under the chin ; ont he 
 sides are two richly-adorned busts, a large lizard forms the 
 handle, and two smaller ones are crawling on the rim. 
 
 448 A vase, the body of which is composed of a squatting figure 
 
 apparently holding on a mask, on the sides of which are two 
 snakes. The handle is formed of a lizard. 
 
 449 A vase resting on four duck's-heads inverted, with sundry idols on 
 
 the body. 
 
 450 An oval vase, originally painted, standing on four heads and orna- 
 mented with idols. 
 
 remarkable vase. On the front and back are two figures seated, 
 the feet of which form the pedestal ; on the sides are double 
 handles of coiled snakes. 
 
 large pitcher-shaped vase resting upon the beaks of six birds ; in 
 the front is a figure, wearing an arched cap, the legs suspended 
 in the air ; on the body is a rose, the sides of the vase 
 are covered with hieroglyphic characters resembling 410 & 411. 
 large red libatory urn. In front is a large bust wearing a 
 turretted cap with tassels pendant, around the base are nine 
 penates ; two other figures are on the sides, and under the hp 
 are the Sacred Seals. Two snakes form the handle, 
 curious mug in the shape of a frog, whose open mouth serves for 
 the hp. On the back is a turtle, in front a grotesque figure 
 with its hands on the animal's feet. 
 455, 456 Two globular red vases, one resting on four heads, the other 
 on four claws. Both are decorated with snakes and penates. 
 
 457 A globular vase with four penates as feet. It is surrounded by 
 
 four busts. 
 
 458 A globular vase resting on four curled feet, with various idols on 
 
 the body. 
 
 459 A vase of very rude work. On the front and sides are human 
 
 heads. The handle is composed of two snakes. 
 
 460 A handsomely-shaped black vase resting on four ducks' heads. 
 
 The body is much ornamented with various penates. 
 
 461 A pitcher-shaped black vase. On the front and sides are many 
 
 faces and some hieroglyphic characters. 
 
 462 A conical black vase on high feet, above which appear hieroglyphic 
 
 characters, much resembling the rice bowls of the Chinese. 
 
 463 A very remarkable black vase resting on four curled feet. On the 
 
 front and back are two large busts ; on the sides two smaller 
 ones, the upper part of which resembles the Greek Modius. 
 
 464 A red vase on four snakes' heads. On the front and back are faces 
 
 with very prominent chins, and between them small idols. 
 
 451 A 
 
 452 A 
 
 453 A 
 
 454 A 
 
32 
 
 465 A globular cinerary urn on four feet ; it has the Sacred Seal and a 
 
 head on each side. 
 
 466 A vase of very rude work in the shape of a human figure, snake 
 
 handled. 
 
 467 A large globular vase, under the rim is a wreath of various flowers ; 
 
 the body is covered with ornaments apparently of fruits, cakes, 
 and flowers, and among them the very remarkable one of the 
 eagle pearched on a cactus, and holding a snake in its beak. 
 
 ♦»» This representation has ^iJlusion to the tradition of the old 
 Aztecs or Aztecas, who originally nmigrated from a country called 
 Aztalan, which country, Humboldt says, we must look for at least 
 north of the forty-second degree of latitude. He formed this con- 
 clusion from an examination of the Aztec or Mexican manuscripts, 
 on which an account in painted hieroglyphics or pictures was given 
 of the migration from Aztalan to Mexico, and how long they 
 halted at certain places, which in the aggregate amounts to 416 
 years. They made, it appears, iifteer\ journeys, when, coming to the 
 Vale of Mexico, they met with the prodigy, or fulfilment of the 
 prophecy predicted at the outset of their journey, namely, that 
 the migration of the Aztecs should not terminate till the chiefs of 
 the nation should meet with an eagle perched on a cactus tree, or 
 prickly pear— at such a place they might found a city, and this, as 
 their picture books inform us, they discovered in the Yale of 
 Mexico, in the year 1.325 ; there, as a consequence, they settled 
 and laid the foundation of the present city. This was also the 
 origin of the present Mexican arms. 
 
 468 A small pitcher-shaped vase, of common work, in the front is 
 
 a human bust. 
 
 469 A red vase, formed as it were of the body of a grotesque squatting 
 
 figure ; it has a snake-formed handle. 
 470, 471 A pair of red globular vases, standing each on four claws ; 
 they are handsomely ornamented with double rows of penates. 
 
 472 A black pitcher-shaped vase on four snakes' heads, the handle is very 
 
 elegant, springing from a decorated arch, under which is a penates. 
 
 473 A globular vase of rude work, the lip of which is formed of a huge 
 
 serpent's head, with open jaws and protruding tongue. 
 
 474 A very handsome globular vase on four turretted feet, the body is 
 
 entirely covered with various ornaments ; a band of eight heads 
 encircling the centre ; the rim is formed of a coiled snake. 
 This vase may be compared with No. 416. 
 
 475 A handsome conical vase, richly ornamented ; four snakes partially 
 
 coiled are around the base, and four lizards and penates on the 
 body. 
 
 476 Thirty cups and paterae of different forms and sizes, some standing 
 
 on three or four feet, some have a dull, some a glossy surface, 
 some are beautifully painted inside with Egyptian-like figures 
 and birds, and many are ornamented externally ; two are of 
 black clay, the others are painted red and black, and are cer- 
 tainly of Cholula manufacture. 
 
 *0* Many of these paterae were used for the burning of copal and 
 incense, and several were found with the remains of the dead, and 
 were stained at the bottom as if food or some offering had once 
 been placed in them. 
 
33 
 
 477, 478, 479, 480 Four figures evidently posterior to the Spanish 
 Invasion, probably portraits of persons in high authority. Tliey 
 were found, with some others, at Ixcapuralco. One 30 inches 
 high holds in one hand a shield, in the other a flat mace 
 terminating in a human face ; it has toad knee-pieces and snake- 
 tied sandals. Another wears a high cap with pendant side 
 iappets, upon the breast is a large toad flanked by an idol ; the 
 figure grasps a snake in the left hand, while both rest upon idols 
 placed upon the knees. All wear the Spanish moustache, but 
 are difi'erently attired. There is a combination of the two 
 countries very sticking in these figures ; for v/hile their general 
 appearance is European, their posture and decorations are Mex- 
 ican, — two being seated on coiled snakes, and one squatting. 
 
 481 A singular kneehng figure with large rotund body, on a coiled 
 snake with forked tongue ; it wears a crown of ten rays, the 
 hair is dressed in a long band on each side the head, on the 
 breast is a pectoral in shape of a human face, it holds an orna- 
 mented roll in the right hand, and a large lizard is crawling on 
 the back of the figure. 
 
 A skull, (brought from Mexico with this Collection,) apparently that 
 of a Spaniard, and in all probability one of the foUowers of 
 Cortes, who fell into the hands of the Mexicans when they 
 repulsed the invaders from the city in 1520. The centre of the 
 ' calvarium has an oblong perforation within a circular groove, 
 which would enable it to be suspended or placed upon a peg, as 
 a trophy, hence calkd " Trophy Skulls." 
 
 *#* It is a well authenticated fact, that the Aztecs sacrificed their 
 war prisoners to their Gods, and preserved their skulls as memorials 
 of their prowess. Oomara, speaking of this practice, sa3's, that 
 near the great temple was " a charnel house, only of dead men's 
 heads, prisoners in war, and sacrificed with the knife." It was a 
 prodigious rampart of earth in the form of a half pyramid, having 
 seventy beams erected on its surface, v/hich were bored with dif- 
 ferent holes, through these sticks were passed across from one beam 
 to another, and on each of them a number of heads were stuck, 
 
 482 A round red vase on four feet. On the body are four heads and 
 
 four penates, placed alternately ; the rim is richly ornamented. 
 
 483 A tall pitcher-shaped vase, quite of a classic form. Round the 
 
 body ai^ eight heads and penates, above and below which is a 
 band of rich ornament ; the handle is formed of a lizard between 
 two snakes. 
 
 484 A globular vase with two handles, resting on two semicircular 
 
 supports. The lower lialf is covered with rows of ornamental 
 work, 
 
 485 A red vase on four curled feet, on the front of which are grotesque 
 
 heads, above them are three rows of busts, penates, and two 
 Sacred Seals ; the rim is variously ornamented. 
 
34 
 
 486 A tall black globular vase resting on the tails of four serpents, 
 
 while between them is the Sacred Seal ; above them are medal- 
 lions, apparently of flowers and penates ; under the rim, round 
 which two serpents are coiled, is another row of four Sacred 
 Seals and two idols. 
 
 487 A splendid globular red vase on two squatted human figures, the 
 
 faces very prominent, and the lips open ; over the heads are 
 coiffures with rich pendants, and on either side a large and two 
 smaller idols. 
 
 488 A handsome black oval vase resting on four ducks' heads, above 
 
 which is a row of ornamental work. The body of the vase is 
 encircled by two rows of idols, eleven in each. 
 
 489 A tall pitcher-shaped hbatoiy vase, the top formed of an animal's 
 
 head, whose open mouth serves for a spout ; the whole body is 
 covered with idols and the Sacred Seal. A lizard serves for 
 the handle. 
 
 490 A black libatory vase resting on coiled snakes ; in front is a bust 
 
 capped, pendant ornaments on either side the face, and a pectoral 
 under the chin ; the body of the vase is covered with idols, the 
 Sacred Seal, and indented cu'clets ; the handle is formed of a 
 lizard between two snakes. 
 
 ON CENTRE TABLE, AND IN THE 
 GLASS CASE. 
 
 491 A very remarkable and curious vase, in the shape of a squatted 
 
 human figure, with obsidian eyes and a long tongue protruding, 
 descending over the chin ; the head-dress consists of a cap with 
 pendant lappets, round the neck is a rich collar, from which 
 hangs a hon-like head ; the hands rest on the knees ; it wears 
 ornamented bracelets, round the loins are two serpents, and on 
 the back and shoulders are penates ; the handle is formed of a 
 lizard, whose chin rests on the coiffure of the figure. 
 
 492 A Mytho-historical group representing an eagle devouring a serpent, 
 
 the armorial badge of Mexico, as derived from the tradition of 
 the Aztecs upon their settlement in that country. (See Note to 
 No. 467.) Beneath the eagle is a human figure, apparently in 
 the act of faUing backwards, symbohcal of the conquest and 
 expulsion of the Toltecs by the Aztecs. 
 
 493 A very remarkable globular vessel perforated for suspension ; on 
 
 the four sides of the stem are penates, and on the top of these 
 ♦ are four human heads ; at the corners of the vase are four 
 snakes with heads erect, and mouths sufficiently open to hold, 
 probably a light, when such was used in honor of any idol. 
 
35 
 
 494 A snapping turtle, on the back of which are four idols. This 
 animal has no shell, but is covered by a very tough membrane, 
 and is so famous for biting and holding fast, that they go to 
 market in the United States in strings formed by each having 
 another's tail in its mouth. This we have been told, but not 
 having seen it cannot undertake to vouch for it. 
 
 495, 496 Two flat figures, with glossy surface in earthenware, nearly 
 similar, except in their ornamented caps, their breasts are 
 covered apparently with feathered vests, their legs with a species 
 of scale-work ; they are supposed to represent war idols. (They 
 may be compared with No. 8.) 
 
 497 Objects in Obsidian or volcanic glass, a material found throughout 
 
 Mexico in great abundance. In the Aztec language it was 
 called " Itzli," and the Indians of Yucatan named it " The 
 shining God." Out of it the Mexicans formed their sacrificial 
 knives, razors, spear and arrow heads, it being capable of 
 receiving a very fine edge, and a very sharp point. A number 
 of the pieces here exhibited appear to have been prepared for 
 that formidable native weapon the Miquahuitl, described in the 
 note to No. 64. 
 
 498 Three pohshing stones, one in green porphyry, another in red 
 
 jasper, and the third in yellow marble. 
 
 499 Two stone axe heads, much hke the so-called Celts of Europe. 
 
 500 A stone chisel and two stones probably used as whetstones. 
 
 501 Head of a snake in hard green stone. 
 
 502 An eagle grasping the serpent, in red terra-cotta. (For the history 
 
 of this, see Note to 467.) 
 
 503 A miniature "Metate" for grinding spice or maize for "tortillas." 
 
 Similar ones are now used by the common people. The grain 
 is first soaked in lime-water, and placed near the fire to heat, 
 then washed and rubbed, or ground into paste. 
 
 504 A large medallion or " Great Seal," in red terra-cotta. In the 
 
 centre is the Spanish Monarch (the Emperor Charles V.), seated 
 on a Gothic throne,- holding in his right hand the sword, and in 
 his left the orb and cross. On either side is suspended a shield 
 charged with the aims of Castile and Leon, over each a winged 
 cherub, and another beneath the throne; the whole included 
 within a rich wreath. Medallions of this description were made 
 after the Conquest, and distributed among the people, as a 
 substitute, it is said, for their forbidden idols ; while it also served 
 as a badge or symbol of subjection to the Spanish Crown. 
 
 505 Three small round mirrors, perforated and worn as ornaments by 
 
 the aborigines. They were commonly called " Montezuma's 
 looking glass," and are formed of the variety of iron pyrites 
 denominated Piedra de los Incas. They are of extreme rarity, 
 and it is a question if modern art would be able to give them so 
 fine a polish. 
 
 506 Sundry rows of beads of different forms and material, found with 
 
 human remains. 
 
36 
 
 507 Twenty-four stamps or moulds, some entire, others mutilated, all 
 
 highly curious and interesting. They were used for conveying 
 designs and colours to cottons and stuffs, and also in the fabric 
 of ornaments found on different vases ; one has the impress of 
 the " miquahuitl," an ancient warlike weapon already described 
 in a note. 
 
 508 Two objects apparently in chalk. One a species of " Coyote," or 
 
 wolf ; the other a figure recumbent on a sort of couch. These 
 objects are very rare. 
 
 509 A piece of cinnabar or native quicksilver. This was used by the 
 
 early Mexicans as their chief colouring matter. 
 
 510 Seven small objects known by the Indians as " Sombrerilos" or 
 
 little hats. They were placed over the eyes of the dead. 
 
 511 Three perfect and four imperfect flageolets or " Chirimia." One is 
 
 of red clay ; the others have been painted black and red. 
 
 512 Thirty-four whistles, or " pitos," of various and singular forms. 
 
 one represents the full face of an owl, another a duck, another a 
 toad, one a dove seated on a turtle, one a squatting figure, one 
 a human head, and some were found with the bones of children. 
 
 513 Seven rattles, or " sonaja," of different forms. 
 
 *»* The above three lots comprise all the musical instruments that 
 have been discovered of the Aztecs or ancient Mexicans. They 
 were used in their various religious ceremonies and processions, 
 and it is remarkable that the sounds or notes from the whistles 
 generally resemble those of the birds they represent: this is par- 
 ticularly observable in the one with the owl's head, and in that of 
 the dove seated on a turtle, the first giving a screech, the other a 
 cooing sound. 
 
 Decorated head of a club or mace of hard sihcious stone. An object of 
 the greatest rarity. 
 
 A cup rudely wrought out of a piece of Madrepore, ( Meandrhia cere- 
 bri formis.) The porous nature of the substance of which this 
 vessel is formed would lead to the belief that it was employed 
 by the Mexicans as a kind of filter. 
 
 514 A variety of small objects in alabaster, perforated and worn by the 
 
 superstitious aborigines, in the different forms of birds, fishes, 
 and reptiles, as amulets or charms ; all are more or less engraved, 
 and will not fail to strike the learned in Egyptian antiquities, 
 with their great resemblance to the sculptures of that mysterious 
 people. 
 
 515 A sexagon vessel of mottled steatite, each panel carved with a 
 
 human head in profile. The physiognomy is so marked, and 
 the costume so distinct, that there can be no doubt they represent 
 portraits of then living persons, and most probably the Chiefs 
 of the " Six Nations," the physiognomical characteristics resem- 
 bling much more those of the Red men than the Aztecs. At 
 each angle of the vessel is a different weapon, and a coiled 
 snake forms the rim. The lower part is in the shape of three 
 steps, and on the base is sculptured the Sacred Seal. The 
 Ulterior is cyhndrical. 
 
37 
 
 51G A seated figure in pink steatite, the hand resting on the knees, th6 
 head-dress consists of the head and plumage of the royal eagle, 
 with pendant lappets ; round the neck are circlets, and the 
 wrists and legs are decorated with wings. The throne upon 
 which the figure is seated appears to be covered with a cloth. 
 This figure is of the highest finish, and of great rarity. It is 
 undoubtedly the portrait of a chieftain. 
 
 517 An ivory shuttle for hand weaving. 
 
 518 A four-sided vessel in black steatite, on each side of which is 
 
 sculptured a human figure in profile ; they are differently habited, 
 and from the objects issuing from their mouths, are evidently 
 designed to represent the act of speaking, as shown in the 
 ancient picture books of the Mexicans, described in Lord 
 Kingsborough's valuable work on their antiquities. One figure 
 holds a sceptre in front of which is a bird — another a flower. 
 These vessels were intended for pigments, and were considered 
 very valuable by the cognoscenti of Mexico. 
 
 519 A hatchet-formed instrument of thin bronze, the edges of the 
 
 blade raised in a similar way to some of the Celtec Paalstabs of 
 Europe, with this was found a needle of red or copper bronze. 
 
 This instrument is probably similar to those described by Bernal 
 Diaz, in his account of the first voyage of the Spaniards along the 
 coast of Guacaulco. He says " It was a custom of the Indians 
 of this province to carry small hatchets of copper, very bright, 
 and the wooden handles of which were highly painted, as intended 
 both for defence and ornament. These were supposed by us to be 
 gold, and were, of course, eagerly purchased, inasmuch that in 
 three days we had amongst us procured above six hundred, and 
 were, while under the mistake, as well pleased with our bargain as 
 the Indians with their green beads." 
 
 520 A tobacco pipe, the only one in the Collection ; the bowl and stem 
 
 decorated with incuse circles. 
 
 521 Another figure, evidently a portrait of an Aztec Prince, from its 
 
 Indian pliysiognomy. He is seated on a richly-adorned square 
 pHnth, and has on his head a plumed cap with hanging orna- 
 mental tassels ; over the breast are suspended three orders, 
 terminating in a medallion ; around the waist is a ceinture or 
 girdle in rich points, the feet are sandalled ; in one hand it holds 
 a baton, in the other an image. 
 
 Collars or badges of rank or merit appear to have been in use 
 among the Mexicans at the period of the Conquest. Among 
 Montezuma's presents to Cortes were two gold collars set with 
 precious stones. Honest Beinal Diaz, who was an eye witness of 
 the customs and ceremonies of Montezuma's Court, frankly 
 declares, that had he not seen them with his own eyes, he 
 should never have credited the existence of Orders and Badges 
 among the barbarians, like those found among the most civilized 
 nations of Europe. 
 
38 
 
 522 A figure, seated on an elevated chair of state, resting on four legs, 
 
 the two in front being Indians, the two behind animals upright. 
 Tlie figure has on its head a rayed crown ; in one hand it holds 
 a trunclieon or baton, in the other an open book in which is 
 written in Spanish, " Yo soy soy Safurtysty Gohernardo de 
 Santyago Tlaltelolco, 1552." Two snakes form the arms of 
 the chair, on the back of which appears to be a medallion of 
 hieroglyphic characters. The figure is clothed in rich vestments 
 and an order is suspended round the neck. The policy of the 
 victorious Spaniards led them, in order to conciliate the feelings 
 of the conquered, to invest the native princes with power and 
 authority, and this is undoubtedly a portrait of one of the first 
 to whom such dignity was entrusted. This figure, of unmistake- 
 able Aztec physionomy, is of extreme interest, being the only 
 one of positive date, namely 1552, exactly 31 years after the 
 conquest by Cortes. 
 
 Frescott describing the measures pursued by Cortes imme- 
 diately after the conquest, writes, " He invited Spaniards to the 
 Capital, by grants of land and houses, while the Indians, with 
 politic liberality were permitted to live under their own Chiefs as 
 before, and to enjoy various immunities. With this encourage- 
 ment the Spanish quarter of the City, in the neighbourhood of the 
 great Square, could boast in a few years, two thousand families ; 
 while the Indian district of Tlaltelolco included no less than thirty 
 thousand." 
 
 523 A squatted human figure, the hands support the face, the elbows 
 
 resting on the knees ; a toad is crawling up the back of the head. 
 
 524 Twenty spindle wheels, or " tosca," used by females in the manu- 
 
 facture of cotton thread. Many of them were found with the 
 remains of children. They are variously ornamented. 
 
 •»* Spindle Whirls similar to these in form, but of wood, are in 
 common use among the Indians of Sarayam on the river Ucayali. 
 
 525 Two large perforated studs in terra-cotta, painted. 
 
 526 An animal in a crouching posture, it has a crown on his head, and 
 
 on the back three whistles. 
 
 LEAMINGTON : rrhitecl by J, GLOVEll, 1, Victoria Terrace.