The cult of the rain god is one of the oldest and most universal in ancient Mexico. Supreme god of rain, Tlaloc is also a god of earthly fertility and water. He was widely worshipped as a beneficent giver of life and sustenance. However, he was also feared for his ability to send hail, thunder, and lightning, and for being the lord of the powerful element of water. Tlaloc is also associated with caves, springs, and mountains, most specifically the sacred mountain in which he was believed to reside. His animal forms include herons and water-dwelling creatures such as amphibians, snails, and possibly sea creatures, particularly shellfish. The Mexican marigold, Tagetes lucida, was another important symbol of the god and was burned as a ritual incense in native religious ceremonies.

circa 850 AD, State of Campeche, Mexico,
Worcester Art Museum, Worcester, MA, 11/29/19