1-1650 Aztec Roller Stamp

This is a roller stamp of Mesoamerican origin. Based on the design of the stamp in comparison to others, the stamp is likely from the 10th-15th century, suggesting a Postclassic Period, possibly Aztec, origin. Roller stamps like this can be hollowed out to put a stick through to roll out the impression. They were handmade, but later as demand increased a technique called the mold-made stamp became more popular. The use of these stamps has been debated by archaeologists. Some believe they were used to decorate people’s bodies and experiments with our 3D prints show they accomplish this function better than others such as pottery decoration. Based on the designs of this stamp, it may be representative of a pattern style motif. Enrico, J. (1953). Design motifs of Ancient Mexico. New York: Dover Pub. Field, F. V. (1974). Pre-hispanic mexican stamp designs. New York: Dover. Roller Stamp with Birds. (n.d.). Retrieved September 23, 2020, from https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/307740?searchField=All