Ear Ornament or Spindle Whorl with Modeled Design Possibly 1450 - 1521

This small, circular, terracotta artifact, likely dating to the 15th or 16th century, was crafted by Aztec artisans. It's uncertain if this piece served as a decorative ear ornament or a spindle whorl for spinning yarn. The object features a central hole, suggesting a functional purpose, and is embellished with an intricately modeled design of interlocking swirls and lines on its surface. The piece exemplifies the skilled artistry of the Aztec people, who incorporated symbolic motifs into their everyday objects.