Animal Effigy Research
South American Cultures/ Animal Effigies
Respond in 3 full Paragraphs Per Culture:
:
1. Aztec
Where and when this ancient civilization existed. – 2pt
List these 3 important characteristics of the culture:
Describe the Artifacts they Created. – 2pt
Describe their religion and system of government. – 2pt
c. Describe a ritual that this culture performed. – 2pt
Look up the sacrificial rituals the Aztec performed, how were these performed and how were their ceramics used in these ceremonies? – 4pt
Describe, and include 2 photos of animal effigies this culture created in clay.
What traits of the animal did they emphasize, and how does that relate to their beliefs? – 10 pt
2. Moche
Where and when the ancient civilization existed. – 2pt
List these 3 important characteristics of the culture:
Describe the Artifacts they Created. – 2pt
Describe their religion and system of government. – 2pt
c. Describe a ritual that this culture performed. – 2pt
3. Look up the Moche Stirrup Pots, how did they get their name and what were they used for in ancient times? What were some of the subjects these pots represented? – 4pt
4. Describe, and include 2 photos of animal effigies this culture created in clay. What traits of the animal did they emphasize, and how does that relate to their beliefs? – 10 pt
VOCAB
Find the definition of the following terms, and restate them in your own words:
Effigy – 2pt
Zoomorphic – 2pt
Ceremonial Object -2pt
Sample Solution
The Aztecs appeared in Mesoamerica-as the south-central region of pre-Columbian Mexico is known-in the early 13th century. Their arrival came just after, or perhaps helped bring about, the fall of the previously dominant Mesoamerican civilization, the Toltecs. Ceramic vessels in the form of effigies were made in large numbers in many parts of Mexico throughout the Pre-Columbian era. Often used in ceremonies, the animals selected for depiction were those that played a role in myth. They served as cultural and cosmic metaphors based on their habitat and natural features. Birds generally symbolized the celestial realm and were associated with the sun, moon, and planet Venus; they were also considered messengers between the world of the living and the supernatural sphere.
