ca. 400–600
Volcanic ash, lime, mineral pigment, and mud backing
1985.104.12
This mural is absolutely unique in subject matter. It is also unusual because scenes showing an actual moment of violence are rare in Teotihuacan art. The style of the painting is noteworthy for the heavy, thick strokes used to represent the fur of coyotes and their bulky forms in contrast to the elegant limbs of the deer. A white outline on one side of the body and limbs serves as a simple form of chiaroscuro that renders the figures three-dimensional. While Teotihuacan art is usually flat and ornamental, this technique demonstrates a preoccupation with suggesting depth.
