Rebecca Stacey Libros

The nine turquoise mosaics from Mexico are among the most remarkable artifacts in the British Museum, showcasing the artistry of the Mixtec and Aztec civilizations encountered by Europeans during the Spanish conquest in the early sixteenth century. These exquisite pieces include masks, a shield, a knife, a helmet, a double-headed serpent, a mosaic on a human skull, a jaguar, and an animal head. Admired for their technical skill and artistic merit, they also hold significance in ritual and ceremony. Recent scientific investigations by the British Museum have enhanced understanding of these mosaics by identifying the diverse natural materials used in their creation. Illustrated with over 160 color images, this work details the scientific findings, revealing the mosaics as valuable sources of information about ancient Mexico. The materials reflect the artisans' profound knowledge of their environment, and the effort to procure them underscores their significance in a mythologically rich society. Analyses have shed light on the preparation, assembly, and tools used, while historical accounts and archaeological discoveries have provided insights into their cultural context. This exploration encompasses the religion, art, and natural history of the era, illustrating how modern science can illuminate the past.