The Aztecs were incredibly skilled goldsmiths, and they produced beautiful and intricate works of art from the metal. Among the many gold items the Aztecs created were ornaments, jewelry, masks, statues of deities, and symbolic animal figures.
Symbol of Status and Power
Gold held great significance in Aztec society. It was considered a sacred metal, and its ownership and use were strictly controlled by the upper echelons of society. Gold symbolized power, divine authority, and prestige, and it was worn by the elites as a way to display their status.
Use in Ceremonies & Religious Rituals
Gold played a central role in religious practices. Elaborate gold items were used in ceremonies, rituals, and offerings to the gods. The Aztecs believed that gold was a gift from the gods, and they associated it with the sun and divine power.
Currency and Trade
While the Aztecs did not have a coin-based currency, gold had value as a form of exchange and trade. Gold dust and nuggets were used to pay for goods and services, and they could be exchanged for other valuable items such as cacao beans, precious stones, and exotic feathers.
Production and Acquisition of Gold
The Aztecs obtained gold through various methods, including mining, trade, and tribute from conquered territories. They had a sophisticated mining industry, and they used advanced techniques to extract gold from ores. Gold was also acquired through trade with neighboring civilizations, and the Aztecs were known to engage in long-distance trading expeditions.
Aztec Goldwork Today
The artistic skills and craftsmanship of the Aztec goldsmiths continue to be celebrated today. Many examples of Aztec goldwork have survived and are housed in museums around the world, where they are admired for their beauty, historical significance, and incredible cultural value.