Head of Xilonen, the Goddess of Young Maize
Aztec (Mexica)
1400–1500
Medium
Basalt
Dimensions
32.4 × 20.3 × 12.1 cm (12 3/4 × 8 × 4 3/4 in.)
Classification
stone
Department
Arts of the Americas
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
65328
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This sculptural fragment represents Xilonen, the youthful Aztec (Mexica) goddess of new maize (corn), who embodies concepts of fertility and renewal. Two large ears of maize rise from her floral headband, with long tassels flowing down her back. In July the Aztecs held a spectacular agricultural festival in Xilonen’s honor to celebrate the first fruits of the summer season. During this ritual ceremony, a young girl impersonated the goddess, dancing to bring forth an abundant harvest. The name X...