Stamp, Birds 14th-early 16th century Aztec This ceramic stamp features a schematic depiction of a bird with outstretched wings and tail. A thin coiling line defines its teardrop-shaped torso, while its extremities have been reduced to series of parallel lines. The open maw forms a dynamic counterpoint to the static symmetry of the body and suggests that this is a bird of prey shown in striking position. Ancient Mesoamericans generally revered raptors for their hunting abilities, often likening them to warriors and the sun in both their resplendence and occasional hostility.Ceramic stamps were made in Central Mexico from the Early Formative period (ca. 1800-1200 B.C.) and continued into the early sixteenth century. It is assumed that the earliest examples of such objects functioned much as they did among the Aztecs three millennia later: as ornamental devices used to decorate clothing, ceramic vessels, and even the body. They typically feature abstract geometric designs or stylized anim