Study Notes on art pt4 on Mesoamerican Mythology, Aztec Culture, and French Realism

Ant History and Upper Paleolithic Art

  • Understanding of ancient art history is essential, focusing on the context of creation and significance.

    • Key example: The Woman of Willendorf, dated approximately 24,000 BCE.

    • Made from limestone.

    • Discovered in Austria, providing crucial information about the time period and cultural significance.

    • Importance of location (where art was made and found).

Mythology and Deities in Mesoamerica

  • Coatepec: A significant site in Aztec mythology where gods are born.

    • Coatlicue (mother of many gods) depicted with a skirt made from human hands.

    • Associated myths:

    • Coatlicue was impregnated by a weeping feather, leading to the birth of numerous offspring (around 400).

    • Conflict with her children, leading to violence indicative of the gods' relationships.

  • Sister of Coatlicue: Coyolxauhqui.

    • Also involved in narrative of conflict and the cosmic order.

    • Represents the moon goddess, with imagery relating to dismemberment and chaos in the narrative context.

Pictography, Calendar, and Rituals in Aztec Culture

  • Pictography: Utilization of images for communication in Aztec/Mexica society.

    • Semasiography: The use of symbols or signs to express ideas without linguistic content.

  • The importance of the calendar:

    • Days and months were tracked through visual representations.

    • The connection to rulership and divine authority exemplified in important historical figures (e.g., Montezuma).

  • Codex Mendoza: A critical source of Aztec history, dating back to the 16th century, illustrating migration patterns and sociopolitical structure.

    • Aztecs migrated from the North, establishing Tenochtitlan around 1325.

Tenochtitlan and the Temple Mayor

  • Significant historical structure in Tenochtitlan: The Great Pyramid and Temple Mayor, constructed around 1500.

    • Dedicated to dual deities: Tlaloc (the rain god) and Huitzilopochtli (the god of war).

    • The competition among rulers to be atop the pyramid illustrates the political and religious power dynamics.

  • Features of Tlaloc:

    • Described as having large eyes, no pronounced jaw, and often depicted in blue or green colors.

    • The temple served as a site for sacrificial rituals, reflecting deep connections between religious beliefs and political authority.

    • Rituals involved capturing enemies for sacrifice at the temple, illustrating the intertwining of warfare and religion.

    • Physical attributes of Tlaloc and hints at mythical narratives surrounding water and fertility.

Social Context during French Realism

  • Historical context of the French artist Daumier, focusing on the socio-political landscape of France under Louis Philippe.

    • Daumier's art often critiqued the political status quo and corruption.

    • Notable work: "Rue Transnonain" which responded to police violence against protestors in April 1834.

    • Details of the incident: Unlawful killing of a police officer led to a violent retaliation against civilians.

    • Louis Philippe's administration focused on benefitting the wealthy, creating class tensions and corruption.

Conclusion

  • The complexity of art both reflects societal values and historical contexts.

    • Mesoamerican mythology and the art practices reflect social structures, religious beliefs, and the intertwining of life, death, and rebirth.

    • French Realism highlights the themes of social injustice, resistance, and the role of political power in shaping culture.

    • Understanding historical artworks provides insight into the civilization's worldview, ethics, and evolution through time.