Pair of Old Fire God Figurine Incensarios (Incense Burners)

Date

250-650

Creator

This pair of incense burners depict the Teotihuacano Old Fire God. This deity was later named Huehueteotl by the Aztecs. He is often shown seated cross-legged, with both hands resting on his knees. He hunches over, spine curved from age, and is usually shown with only two teeth, as you see here. On his back rests a brazier for burning incense or offerings. The Old Fire God was primarily a household deity, and was associated with the hearth. Small incense burners like these were most likely used in the home rather than a temple or public ceremony.