“Panel 7. The Departure of Quetzalcoatl – The Epic of American Civilization” is a mural painted by Jose Clemente Orozco between 1932 and 1934. This artwork belongs to the Muralism movement and falls within the genres of history painting and symbolic painting. It is part of “The Epic of American Civilization (Dartmouth College Cycle) 1932-1934” series.
The artwork vividly portrays the mythological moment of Quetzalcoatl’s departure. On the left side, a crimson pyramid-like structure can be observed, symbolizing Aztec architecture. Surrounding this are numerous figures, appearing somber and contorted, possibly signifying the sorrow of his followers. Quetzalcoatl, depicted as an elderly man draped in white, stands distinctively at the center of the composition. His dynamic gesture points outward, suggesting his imminent departure or the direction where he is headed. The surrounding environment, dominated by dark, serpent-like forms, adds an element of tumultuous energy to the artwork, enhancing its dramatic and symbolic significance.
