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Ritual Impersonator of the Deity Xipe Totec, possibly Central Veracruz
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Ritual Impersonator of the Deity Xipe Totec, possibly Central Veracruz
3964177 Ritual Impersonator of the Deity Xipe Totec, possibly Central Veracruz, 1450/1500 (ceramic & pigment) by Aztec, (15th century); height: 58.4 cm; The Art Institute of Chicago, IL, USA; (add.info.: As a god of the late dry season and early rainy season (May-June), Xipe Totec (" The Flayed One" ) expresses regeneration. By the time of Spanish contact in 1519, the cult of this deity was widespread throughout Mesoamerica. This figure depicts a young male wearing the skin of a sacrificed victim, a primary symbolic aspect of rituals conducted during agricultural fertility ceremonies dedicated to this deity. The lines across the chest represent stitched seams where the skin was fastened. Like living seed within a dried husk, the deity impersonator embodies the relationship between death and the renewal of life.); Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel A. Marx; out of copyright
Media ID 22545336
© Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel A. Marx / Bridgeman Images
Artefact Artifact Aztec Aztecs Central American Impersonator Mesoamerican Mexicans Mexico Mexican Pre Columbian Precolumbian Spirituality Veracruz America Continent Xipe Totec
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Ritual Impersonator of the Deity Xipe Totec, believed to be from Central Veracruz and created by the Aztecs in the 15th century. Standing at a height of 58.4 cm, this ceramic and pigment sculpture can be found at The Art Institute of Chicago. Xipe Totec, also known as "The Flayed One" represents regeneration during the transition from dry season to rainy season. By the time Spanish explorers arrived in Mesoamerica in 1519, worship of this deity had spread throughout the region. This particular figure portrays a young male adorned with the skin of a sacrificed victim – a powerful symbol within agricultural fertility ceremonies dedicated to Xipe Totec. The stitched seams across his chest indicate where the skin was fastened, emphasizing both death and rebirth. Like a seed within its husk, this deity impersonator embodies the intricate relationship between life's renewal and mortality. This ancient artifact provides insight into Aztec spirituality and rituals. Its intricate carving reveals meticulous craftsmanship that has stood the test of time. As we gaze upon this image, we are reminded of Mexico's rich cultural heritage and its deep connection to spiritual beliefs that have shaped generations past. Gifted by Mr. and Mrs. Samuel A. Marx to The Art Institute of Chicago, this remarkable piece serves as an important reminder of our collective human history and our eternal fascination with deities who hold power over life's cycles.
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