The headdress, a meter-high crown adorned with the green feathers of the quetzal bird, is currently the property of the Museum of Ethnology in Vienna, and has been in Austria's possession since the 16th century, when it was "acquired" by the art-loving archduke Ferdinand II.
Recently, Austria indicated that it might honour Mexico's request for the return of the artefact, which dates back to around 1520, but only on a temporary basis.
"We understand of course that the Penacho has a deep symbolic and spiritual meaning for Mexico's native population, and we are therefore in the process of coming up with conservation measures in order to store and exhibit it as part of Austria's and Mexico's cultural heritage," Sabine Haag, Director of the Kunsthistorisches Museum told radio Oe1.
Austria's Foreign Minister, Michael Spindelegger, has commented that he would not oppose the permanent return of the piece.
The issue highlights the problem of cultural appropriation and rights. Talks are ongoing.
