What is an Aztec atl-tlachinolli?

This video looks at a sculpture known as the Throne of Sacred Warfare in the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City to understand the Aztec (or Mexica) symbol of the atl-tlachinolli. On the back is the symbol of the atl-tlachinolli, accompanied by an eagle on a cactus.

This video describes what an atl-tlachinolli is, what the term means in Nahuatl, how it functioned, and what its imagery symbolized for the Aztecs/Mexica in Mesoamerica. The video also examines the Mexican flag and its possible connection to the atl-tlachinolli. This short video is part of a series that breaks down key terms in art history, archaeology, and history!

CHAPTERS

0:00 What is an atl-tlachinolli?

0:27 Atl-tlachinolli's symbolism and meaning in Nahuatl

1:04 The atl-tlachinolli and the Templo Mayor

01:19 The legacy of the atl-tlachinolli and Mexican flag

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