Codex Chapman

Quetzal Feathers

On top of a conical headpiece are green strands that could only be interpreted as quetzal feathers based on their color and general importance in Nahua culture. These feathers contained tonalli or an animating force found in all living things. They would be found on the regalia of rulers and also gods because the feathers would represent their status and identity. Quetzalcoatl, in particular, is known as the feathered serpent and would be seen with quetzal feathers.

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