Ruler and Palace in Teotihuacán: an Iconographic Analysis

This article addresses linked topics which have been debated intensely in the specialized literature: it proposes to identify the rulers of Teotihuacán, and their palace, through iconographic analysis of images worked in different materials. I present new arguments in favor of my proposal that the figures wearing the Great Tasseled Headdress fulfilled the role of rulers of the city. I also analyze a set of images on ceramics which indicate that their palace, with martial attributes, was a triad of pyramids, probably also including a monumental ceremonial platform. I propose that a possible candidate for the seat of government of Teotihuacan is the archaeological triad of the Plaza of the Columns.