TWO ANCIENT MEXICAN ATLATLS by D.I. Bushnell, Jr. from American Anthropologist, N.S. 7, 1905
About three years ago there came to light in florence, Italy, two Mexican atlatls, true gems of ancient Aztec art. they were fortunately obtained by Professor Mantegazza and are now preserved in the Museo Nazionale d'Antropologia ed Ethnologia del R. Instituto di Studi Superiorim in Florence. The specimens are probably the finest existing examples of the throwing-sticks of the ancient Mexicans. from the high degree of skill shown in the design and execution of the carving, it is evident they were ceremonial or sacred objects and not intended for actual use. Moreover, the carved surfaces of both specimens were originally covered with a thin layer of yellow gold, the greater portion of which still adheres, although on the higher, more exposed parts of the relief, it has been rubbed or worn away. The wood of which they are made is very heavy, fine-grained, and of reddish black hue.
In the following brief description I shall refer to the specimens as A and B.
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