About Aztec Art History

Aztecs reveled in their art and much of its influence is still seen today. They creatively used many materials to create a host of different types of art, but not everyone was privy to these special creations. The average individual in Aztec society was usually not allowed to even own art, unless he happened to create and sell it. Art was restricted to the upper classes. Emperors would heartily guard the art as well as showcase it by never wearing the same ornate clothing more than once.

The Aztecs thrived from the 14th through 16th centuries. At its height in the mid-1500s, the Aztec empire ruled from Central Mexico down to El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala, reaching from the Pacific coast to the Gulf of Mexico. Not only did their art span a wide berth, it borrowed from earlier tribes and is still mimicked today.

A lot of the Aztec creations, and their word for "art" was based on the Toltecs. These settlers erected gargantuan statues of the gods, many of which still remained after their city was destroyed in 1168. Aztecs not only used the word "toltecat" to describe artistic and special creations, but the ruling Aztec family went as far to say they were descendants of the Toltec peoples.

Just as the Toltecs has massive statutes of the gods, a lot of Aztec art is based on religious themes. The gods were a big theme, often drawn as a local priest dressed as a god in ritual or gods with animal characteristics. Animals themselves were a big theme, including birds, fish, jaguars, dogs, monkeys and even insects. Lots of Aztec symbols were also included in the mix, as was a heavy reference to death. Aztec art was very life-like, especially with their depictions of animals and people.

Aztec art did not limit itself to statues and illustrations. They were also known for their ornate and colorful clothing, head dresses and jewelry. Ceremonial or war items, such as knives, masks and shields, were also highly decorated. Illustrated stories, mosaics, ornate architecture with ornate pillars and walls showcased more of their artistic talents.

Stone was the mainstay for many Aztec statues and artwork, but the Aztecs also had a field day using all sorts of materials in their pieces. Silver, gold, turquoise, coral, clay and a host of other gemstones and decorative items made their way into many pieces. Many of the materials had to be imported from other regions and obtained by bartering, as the goods were not native to the Aztec area.