Problem
A Tale of Two Headdresses. In Hawaiian culture, feathers, as shown in 18th century Cloak and Feather Hat (figure 9.7) were reserved for royalty as they were associated with the gods and were sacred. Red and gold feathers symbolize royalty and a prosperous fortune. In Aztec culture, feathers were also sacred, and a 400-count feathered headdress was reserved for the highest person in society. Montezuma's Headdress (figure 11-32) was created in c. 1319 with 400 green feathers of the Quetzall bird, a sacred bird symbolizing wisdom, peace, and fertility. This headdress was given to (or was it taken by?) Cortez during the Spanish exploration/invasion of Mexico during the early 16th century. It is currently located in Austria, where the headdress was given to Charles V. A Mexican cultural organization is currently petitioning to get the headdress back to Mexico. Compare the two headdresses in appearance, functionality, and in symbolism.