The drawings found in the Codex Mendoza folio 65 provide a captivating glimpse into the world of Aztec high lords. Created during the 16th century, these illustrations offer valuable insights into the social and political hierarchy of the Aztec civilization. It is believed that Bernardino de Sahagún, a Franciscan friar, missionary priest, and pioneering ethnographer, played a significant role in documenting and preserving these invaluable records of Aztec culture.

Bernardino de Sahagún, born around 1499, dedicated his life to the Catholic evangelization of colonial New Spain, which encompassed present-day Mexico. He was deeply fascinated by the indigenous cultures of the region and sought to understand and document their customs, beliefs, and way of life. Sahagún’s works, including the Codex Mendoza, became instrumental in preserving the knowledge of Aztec civilization for future generations.

The Codex Mendoza, commissioned by Antonio de Mendoza, the first Viceroy of New Spain, is a comprehensive manuscript that provides a detailed account of Aztec society. It includes depictions of Aztec high lords, their attire, and symbols of authority. These drawings offer valuable insights into the hierarchical structure of Aztec society, highlighting the importance of nobility and the ruling elite.

Sahagún’s meticulous ethnographic research and his collaboration with indigenous informants ensured the accuracy and authenticity of the Codex Mendoza. His pioneering approach of recording indigenous languages and customs laid the foundation for the field of ethnography and greatly contributed to our understanding of Aztec culture.

The drawings in the Codex Mendoza folio 65 serve as a visual record of Sahagún’s extensive research and the artistic skills of Aztec scribes and illustrators. They provide a window into the world of Aztec high lords, their intricate headdresses, regalia, and the symbols that represented their authority.

Today, these drawings are treasured artifacts, offering a valuable connection to the past. They allow us to appreciate the richness and complexity of Aztec civilization and the efforts of Bernardino de Sahagún in documenting and preserving their cultural heritage.

As we study these drawings and delve into the Codex Mendoza, we gain a deeper understanding of the Aztec society, its political structure, and the role of high lords in governing the empire. The legacy of Bernardino de Sahagún’s work endures, reminding us of the importance of preserving and appreciating the diverse cultures that have shaped our world.