The Aztec Influence of The Ecliptic Earrings
Today we launched our newest collection, The Ecliptic Earrings. The name of this collection was inspired by the large circular shapes catching the eye, almost like an eclipse of the Sun. Over the next few weeks, we will be releasing even more beautiful patterns to contribute to this collection. This week the designs were inspired, mostly, by typical ancient Aztec paintings, carvings and craftwork. To understand the designs we decided to put together a little background info on the people responsible for the creation of such iconic patterns and creativity.
The Aztec Empire was formed from varying tribes who had settled in the Valley of Mexico during the 6th Century, making their culture a combination of all these different tribes. From their expansion, they began taking influence from others they came into contact with including the Toltecs who were considered to be a highly civilised group.
Aztec artists showed off their work through the walls of temples, on statues, adorning headdresses and objects for the Gods. Popular materials were often precious, meant as religious symbols, and included pearls, jade and obsidian. These artists were considered higher up in society, being hired by the upper class who would reward them richly.
As displayed in our collection, the Aztecs were drawn to symmetry and bright colours. Recurring geometric patterns were highly favoured and used through circular and rectangular shapes. One of the most famous archaeological examples of this is the Sun Stone, a perfect representation of the typical design style the Aztecs used. This carved wonder aimed to show the reign of the Five Sun Gods and made use of the intricate symmetrical art style of the Empire.
Aztec designs and art show a culture rich with mythology and symbolism. Many paintings and sculptures were created as a tribute to Gods, but there was also a large amount of meaning in the various symbols they used throughout their designs. Their symbology allowed their messages to also become decorative, while showing their interpretations of astrology and religion. Symbols involving staircases, for example, held different meanings depending on how the stairs were represented. Spiral stairs represented the movement of the sun, sky and clouds, whereas the rugged stairs represent the world below, where the sun goes during the night.
Aztec Carvings with pictures from our Ecliptic Collection
Many Aztec patterns have been simplified and adjusted for use today. The dynamic patterns and colours have proved to be popular throughout the fashion and art world, making the Aztec design truly iconic. It is important, however, that the Aztec symbolism, history and culture is not lost through the modernisation and adaption of their designs. Understanding their history is an important part of honoring the Empire that once was.
We are very proud to share with you our new collection and hope you find the designs as intriguing and inspiring as we do. To shop the collection click here.
Rachel the Scorpio