The conquest of America by the Spanish led to the defeat of the warlike Aztec people by Hernán Cortés two years after his arrival in 1519, following an alliance with the Mayas. This type of small, round sculpture was characteristic of Aztec stone sculpture. The rigid posture, reminiscent of the hieratism of Egyptian civilisations and primitive Mediterranean enclaves, is one of its main features. It is interesting to note the characteristic clothing with a small piece of cloth covering the pubis, as well as the large, exaggerated earrings, which were sometimes accompanied by nose rings. During the ceremonies, these standard-bearers held a small banner in their right hand while they stood surrounded by various ornaments such as stones or flowers.
Collection: Images
Project: 6. Under a cloak of terror: violence and armed conflict in Europe.
Chronology: XVI
Scope: Secondary Education, Baccalaureate
Link: https://artsandculture.google.com/asset/standard-bearer-aztec/wAH5X6b7J9VTIg
Resource type: Image
Format: Round sculpture made of volcanic stone. 93 x 123 mm
Source: Google Arts & Culture
Language: English
Date: 1519
Owner: Álvaro Romero González (Modernalia)
Copyright: Google Arts & Culture
Abstract: Anonymous Aztec standard-bearer figurine made ca. 1519 in volcanic stone, used during ceremonies. Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.
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