What was the purpose of Aztec art?

The purpose of Aztec art primarily revolved around religious expression and the tribute to their gods. The Aztecs viewed art as a vital aspect of their spiritual and cultural identity. Many artworks, such as sculptures, carvings, and codices, were created specifically to honor deities and were often used in religious ceremonies and rituals.

The Aztecs believed that creating art was a form of communication with the divine, and many pieces were imbued with symbolic meanings that reflected their cosmology and beliefs. The focus on religious themes and the representation of gods and goddesses in various forms, including the intricate stone carvings found in temples and the vibrant murals adorning their architecture, underscored the importance of spirituality in their society.

This emphasis on religion contrasts with the other purposes, such as art solely for decoration or entertainment, which, while present, did not capture the core function of Aztec artistic expression as effectively. The historical documentation aspect, while relevant, often intertwined with religious themes, further exemplifying the overarching significance of spirituality in Aztec art.