The artwork titled “Relief,” created by Aztec artists around the period c. 1450 – c. 1521, is a stone ornament representative of the Post-classic era, which spans from c. 900 to 1580. This piece is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) located in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork is a rectangular stone slab intricately carved with geometric and abstract motifs, characteristic of Aztec aesthetics. The surface features a series of spirals and circular patterns in low relief, demonstrating meticulous craftsmanship. The texture of the stone and the precision of the carvings reflect the skill and artistry of the Aztec stone workers. The recurring spiral designs might signify various cultural or symbolic meanings pertinent to the Aztec civilization. The restraint in color, with the stone’s natural hue predominating, directs focus to the form and texture, emphasizing the relief work’s tactile quality.
