Mexico Recovers 16th-Century Codices Depicting Tenochtitlan History for 9.5 Million Pesos
Credit: INAH
In a landmark achievement, the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) has completed a historic acquisition, securing three invaluable codices, now recognized as the San Andrés Tetepilco Codices. The acquisition, costing 9.5 million pesos plus tax, marks a significant milestone in preserving Mexico's rich cultural heritage. These pictographic treasures, originating from the late 16th and early 17th centuries, find their new home within the esteemed Mexican Codices Collection at the National Library of Anthropology and History. These documents had been passed down through generations within a family who, out of respect for their privacy, opted to remain anonymous.
Considered a continuation of the renowned Codex Boturini, the Tetepilco Codices provide insights into the foundation of San Andrés Tetepilco and its integration into a new socio-political order during the early years of the Viceroyalty. This acquisition marks a significant milestone comparable to the authentication of the Maya Codex of Mexico six years ago.
Of particular significance is the 'Tira de Tetepilco,' comprised of 20 folded panels, which recounts the history of Tenochtitlan through four themes: the city's foundation in 1300 (with a 25-year discrepancy), the lineage of pre-Hispanic rulers, the arrival of the Spanish in 1519, and the colonial period until 1611. Additionally, it highlights the meeting between tlatoani Itzcóatl and his army chief, Moctezuma Ilhuicamina, between 1427 and 1440. This meeting signifies the incorporation of Tetepilco into the history of Tenochtitlan, as evidenced by the submission of its ruler, Huehuetzin, and his nobles.
The documents, recognized as "mixed codices" for their blend of indigenous paintings and texts in Nahuatl or Spanish, enrich our understanding of Mesoamerican scriptural tradition. San Andrés Tetepilco, though now engulfed in urban sprawl, was once under the jurisdiction of Iztacalco during the periods depicted in these manuscripts.
The Codices underwent thorough analysis, revealing their composition on amate paper with layers of gypsum, cochineal lacquer, and natural pigments. Their authenticity has been affirmed, leading to their inclusion in the Mexican Codices Collection.
This acquisition not only expands the Mexican Codices Collection but also underscores the collaborative efforts dedicated to preserving Mexico's cultural heritage. With their authenticity affirmed and their historical significance recognized, the San Andrés Tetepilco Codices stand as invaluable treasures, bridging the past with the present and enriching our collective understanding of Mesoamerican history.
Considered a continuation of the renowned Codex Boturini, the Tetepilco Codices provide insights into the foundation of San Andrés Tetepilco and its integration into a new socio-political order during the early years of the Viceroyalty. This acquisition marks a significant milestone comparable to the authentication of the Maya Codex of Mexico six years ago.
Of particular significance is the 'Tira de Tetepilco,' comprised of 20 folded panels, which recounts the history of Tenochtitlan through four themes: the city's foundation in 1300 (with a 25-year discrepancy), the lineage of pre-Hispanic rulers, the arrival of the Spanish in 1519, and the colonial period until 1611. Additionally, it highlights the meeting between tlatoani Itzcóatl and his army chief, Moctezuma Ilhuicamina, between 1427 and 1440. This meeting signifies the incorporation of Tetepilco into the history of Tenochtitlan, as evidenced by the submission of its ruler, Huehuetzin, and his nobles.
The documents, recognized as "mixed codices" for their blend of indigenous paintings and texts in Nahuatl or Spanish, enrich our understanding of Mesoamerican scriptural tradition. San Andrés Tetepilco, though now engulfed in urban sprawl, was once under the jurisdiction of Iztacalco during the periods depicted in these manuscripts.
The Codices underwent thorough analysis, revealing their composition on amate paper with layers of gypsum, cochineal lacquer, and natural pigments. Their authenticity has been affirmed, leading to their inclusion in the Mexican Codices Collection.
This acquisition not only expands the Mexican Codices Collection but also underscores the collaborative efforts dedicated to preserving Mexico's cultural heritage. With their authenticity affirmed and their historical significance recognized, the San Andrés Tetepilco Codices stand as invaluable treasures, bridging the past with the present and enriching our collective understanding of Mesoamerican history.
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