Home -> Aztec Indians -> Aztec Art

Aztec Art

All about Aztec art

Aztec art is one of the highlights of ancient Latin American cultures. Aztec art, in its many forms, was normally created for worshipping purposes and to give as gifts to their gods. The most common art was sculpture, but there were also writers, blacksmiths, and jewelry makers. There were seamstresses, cooks, and pottery makers, as well. Seamstresses were in high demand for everything from the king's robes to the servant's attire. The royal cooks were also in high demand to prepare feasts for hundreds of the kings' court. All of the things we call art they considered to be toltecat, the closest word meaning art in Nauahtl. The themes of the works of art vary, but normally center around nature or something to do with a particular god or goddess. From the eagle knights' warrior costume of eagle feathers, beaks, and talons on the feet, to the intricate nose ring the king wore, Aztec art was prevalent everywhere. There were also ceremonial, traditional, and religious masks that were made. The Aztecs took mask making very seriously, as these works of art were worn by royalty and the high priests.

Aztec tattooing is another art form that was celebrated by the Aztecs. They would tattoo their warriors for battle, and only the most upper class nobles could get tattooed. Today, Aztec tattoos are everywhere, and worn with pride. Ancient Aztec art has flourished through the centuries. In modern day Mexico, you can still see the influence Aztec art has had on clothing, art, and even food.