Mexica Statue of Mictlantecuhtli

This clay sculpture (1450–1520) represents Mictlantecuhtli, the Mexica god of death and ruler of the underworld, Mictlan. His skeletal form, exposed ribs, and hanging liver express decay and the inevitable return to earth. Revered by the Mexica, Mictlantecuhtli governed the fate of souls and maintained cosmic balance alongside his consort, Mictecacihuatl.