Mayan and Aztec tattoos - basic symbols, tattoo locations, impressive sketches and photos of works

The popularity of Mayan and Aztec tattoos has passed through the centuries. What symbols of ancient peoples are used by modern masters of tattooing.

The Mayan people were distinguished by one of the most developed cultures of the Mesoamerican period. He stood out for his advanced writing, architecture, art, advanced knowledge of mathematics and astronomy.

Its history presumably began in 2000 B.C. Historians to this day have not been able to make sense of the Mayan calendars. They have been the subject of controversy and detailed study. Therefore, it is assumed that this civilization possessed secret knowledge.

Mayan tattoos had deep meaning

The priests assumed that the application of images on the body or other modifications of the body should like the gods. The explanation of the symbolism of tattoos is found on the basis of many texts that have survived to this day.

However ancient people of this time, besides tattoos, put texts and drawings on the teeth, embedded various objects in the body, deliberately deformed the skulls of children to form an elongated shape of the head.

But tattoos were relegated to a separate category. They were thought to be used only by brave people, as applying them to the body was accompanied by serious pain and a high risk of infection entering the wound. The tattoo was revered by the locals.

The tattoos blizzarded prisoners, highlighted social status, marked elders or warriors. Some images had a symbolic meaning. They conveyed a journey between the stages of life.

Why are ancient people getting tattoos these days?

Many modern dwellers apply ancient tattoos out of the impulse of the fashionable flow of time. But the meaning of the ornament is of little interest to anyone, as the main thing is its external beauty. However, the Maya adhered to the meaning of totem, revealing the essence of the image bearer's image. Devotion to cultural values and revered gods was considered important.

If the bearer of the tattoo wanted to express strength, courage or cunning, he resorted to the image of the jaguar. The eagle was a symbol of speed and foresight. The feathered serpent expressed the benevolence of the god Kukulkan and the high level of spirituality of the owner of the tattoo. The fire-breathing demon represents cruelty, so it was supposed to terrify enemies.

The Mayan calendar.

Scientists are surprised by its accuracy. It shows the correct motion of the planets. Its structure is very complex and incomprehensible. Therefore, the calendar tattoo is considered a very stylish choice.

Loyalty to the emperor

The Maya held the emperor in high esteem because they believed he had been appointed by the gods. They complied with his demands because they believed they came from a god. The image of the emperor on the body can be used as an exclusive totem. Therefore, this option is popular. The main thing is to find a professional tattoo artist.

The most important symbols of Aztec mythology transferred to the tattoo

They included Hunab-ku, because he was always depicted in the center of the calendar and the wheels of the time cycle. In fact, he was considered the creator god and the center of the Milky Way. He continuously releases energy and was considered a source of infinite power.

The profound symbolism of the Aztec tattoo

Many tribes have expressed their relationship to the world through the art of tattooing. However, the Aztecs offered an advanced view of decorating the external body image. In fact, they became the trendsetters of fashion trends.

They focused on conveying the characteristics of their civilization through intricate compositions and a variety of themes. The Aztecs expressed worship of the gods, used images for rituals, and inscribed their own achievements and military victories.

The high level of Aztec tattoo art

In various photos, you can see that they reached unprecedented heights of skill, as they placed great importance on tattoos in the culture and social hierarchy of society. They were used for rituals and religious activities.

They were applied to the bodies of adults and younger generations. Were distinguished by special style solutions, therefore gained popularity among modern people. Thanks to them, fashionistas successfully highlight individuality and emphasize their unique character traits.

What did the various Aztec tattoos symbolize?

The Indians used many symbols, but the sun god was considered the founder of everything. His name was Huitzilopochtil. He had a special status because he gave life force and guarded the heavens.

Sunrise was associated with the afterlife. On the tattoo, the sun god is rendered as a blue face. Ancient texts are added to the sketch. A heart pierced with a dagger had the same meaning.

The Aztecs considered it a ritual representation of a sacrifice to the sun god. The dagger was considered a sacred object. Other interesting images for the modern tattoo:

A good option for a modern tattoo could be an image of a warrior god based on a tongue out with complementary texts or symbols;
The god of creative power was drawn in the form of a winged snake. It represents fertility, wisdom and the power to control the weather. Later this tattoo was borrowed by less developed tribes. It has been popular for 2,000 years and is used today as a fashionable decoration

Often the Indian in various rock sculpture photos appears before us with the image of a star, moon, warriors, eagles, princesses or the Aztec calendar. Any of these options is considered appropriate in our time.