🎭🦜

Feathered headdresses and formidable masks

By Google Arts & Culture

Mesoamerica symbolica 11-1

Mesoamerica symbolica 11-2

Both the Maya and Aztec were cultures that appreciated adornment - especially in the form of headdresses and masks. 

Mesoamerica symbolica 11-3

🦜🐦

Mesoamerica symbolica 11-4

Feathers from birds of every color and kind were used to create costumes, which could include headpieces.

Mesoamerica symbolica 11-5

💚💍

Mesoamerica symbolica 11-6

Jade was a prestigious material sought after by the Maya and used to create masks, jewelry and other adornments that represented a high status. 

Mesoamerica symbolica 11-7

Masks of jade and other materials were worn by the Maya in a variety of circumstances, and played a significant role in other aspects of Mayan culture - 

Mesoamerica symbolica 11-8

for instance, they could be used to decorate temples.

Mesoamerica symbolica 11-9

Mesoamerica Symbolia headdresses

Credits: All media
The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
Explore more
Related theme
Descent of the Serpent
Explore the symbols, culture, and legends of ancient Mesoamerica
View theme

Interested in Visual arts?

Get updates with your personalized Culture Weekly

You are all set!

Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.

Home
Discover
Play
Nearby
Favorites