[5] Penacho featherwork was traditionally used in indigenous cultures, including the Aztecs, where intricate feathered pieces were used ceremonially and symbolic of status or power.

[6] However, it is recognized to have been a symbol of political and religious power in ancient Mexico and similar headdresses appear in Aztec monuments as part of the his ritual belongings.

[8] Scholars have suggested that the headdress derived its name from the traditional story of the meeting between Motecuhzoma and Hernán Cortés where he presumably gave the Conquistador diplomatic gifts of headdresses, gold and silver, and clothes to please Emperor Charles V.[1] Harvard art historian, Khadija von Zinnenburg Carroll, discusses the fact that there were many Aztec rulers throughout history who never wore the same crown twice, and so if there is only one crown left in existence, there is a very slim chance of actually knowing to whom it originally belonged.

[1][10] Esther Pasztory has suggested that there is evidence that headdresses, such as this piece, were part of the Aztec royalty for ritualistic purposes, especially to be worn when impersonating the god Quetzalcoatl.

[11] The object's identification as a quetzalapanecayotl (a quetzal bird feather headdress) is attributed to American anthropologist Zelia Nuttall in her research paper "Standard or Head-dress?".

[8] In Aztec folklore, Moctezuma II is often remembered not only as a ruler but as a figure whose reign marked the coinciding of divine prophecy and political power.

[15] During this time, it was reinterpreted as an "indigenist" icon that represents the grandeur of the Aztec Empire, aligning with Mexico’s efforts to establish a unique cultural identity distinct from its colonial past.

[7] In the city of Puebla, located in central Mexico during the time of the Aztec Empire, performers trained for many months to personify the bird and illustrate the dignity, godliness, and grace that the Indians attribute to it.

While searching for objects to display in the new museum, von Hochstetter found the headdress in Ambras Castle, Archduke Ferdinand’s former residence in Innsbruck, Austria.

[4][24][25] The smallest layer is made from blue feathers of the Cotinga amabilis (xiuhtōtōtl) with small plates of gold in the shapes of half moons.

[29] Scholars and researchers have debated its provenance, questioning whether it was truly owned by "Moctezuma II" or served a broader ceremonial purpose in Aztec society.

[27] Furthermore, the headdress remains a focal point of cultural heritage discussions, with Mexico frequently advocating for its return as part of ongoing repatriation dialogues.

[27] These debates highlight the broader issues of colonial-era artifact displacement and the ethical considerations surrounding their modern-day ownership and display.

[8] Xokonoschtletl contacted parliamentarians in Mexico and Austria, carried out media campaigns, and even allegedly brought the case to the United Nations and the Pope.

[32] While the artifact remains in Austria, the research project fostered a deeper collaboration between Mexican and Austrian experts, leading to advancements in conservation techniques.

[33] Despite the logistical challenges, Mexico continues to advocate for innovative solutions, such as virtual repatriation or temporary exhibitions within the framework of strict preservation protocols, to make the headdress accessible to its people.