During the 15th and 16th centuries, the Aztec Empire ruled the land that we know today as Central and South Mexico. The Aztecs also had another name, Aztlan, which meant white land.
The Aztecs had many gods, among whom Quetzalcoatl was one of the most important. Quetzalcoatl was known as a noble spirit for Teotihuacan tribes in the 1st century AD and played an imperative role in the flourishing of Aztec history and culture.
Many other cultures also revered him as a god and called him by various names. However, the image of a feathered serpent is common for all the gods. According to Mayans, the feathered serpent is planet Venus. But for Aztecs, it’s the god Quetzalcoatl.
Are you interested in getting a Quetzalcoatl tattoo? Wonder what it means? Need some inspiration? Look no further, as the answers you need are right here.
Why is Quetzalcoatl a Popular Tattoo?
Quetzalcoatl, or Ancient Mexico’s Feathered Serpent God, was among the most powerful gods of this culture. He was known as the god of art, learning, fertility, and even dawn.
That’s why tattoos of Quetzalcoatl tend to show his face having different meanings like creativity, strength, or knowledge. These tattoos are also an ode to the god Quetzalcoatl and its worship. Even though very few people practice the Aztec religion now, it is still a popular tattoo idea.
The tattoo typically pays homage to the rich Aztec culture. It indicates that one appreciates Quetzalcoatl and its deep symbolic meaning.
Besides that, Quetzalcoatl is the god of Venus planet, and it is best suited for people who are creative or even artists. Since it is also a symbol of learning, the tattoo is for people who aspire to learn and gain knowledge about life. The tattoo is a symbol of one’s pursuit of wisdom.
Quetzalcoatl Ideas For You to Get Inked
Quetzalcoatl tattoo has a deep meaning and symbolism, making it a popular choice among tattoo enthusiasts. Now that you know the meaning and history of the Quetzalcoatl god, here are a few design ideas you can consider before you decide to get inked:
1. Quetzalcoatl God Tattoo
The most common depiction of Quetzalcoatl as an Aztec god, this tattoo design of Quetzalcoatl also emphasizes him being a God. It depicts his power or being closer to nature.
While not many people believe in Quetzalcoatl, getting this tattoo can make you feel positive and strong. It makes you feel powerful and puts the belief that you can achieve anything.
The detailed and intricate tattoo can also signify that you are cultured, well-read, and curious to learn more about this world.
2. Quetzalcoatl Head Tattoo
If you don’t want the complete Quetzalcoatl tattoo, you can opt for one with only the head. The image shows only his head, often depicted as a dragon, representing strength, power, and the magic of the Aztec god.
It also represents creativity and helps boost the productivity of those associated with arts or crafts.
3. Quetzalcoatl And Mictlantecuhtli Tattoo
Quetzalcoatl, the Aztec lord of the underworld, or the land of dead people, ruled with his wife, Mictecacíhuatl. Quetzalcoatl and his wife symbolize two opposites, like life and death or night and day, making them the symbolic Yin and Yang of the Aztecs.
In simple terms, this tattoo indicates that there are always two facets or sides of everything in the world and that death follows birth.
4. Tribal Quetzalcoatl Tattoo
If you like the design of a feathered serpent but want it to be distinct, you can go for this stunning design. Being a tribal tattoo, it has many intricate details and will require more time and effort to get done perfectly.
The tribal tattoo isn’t just body art but also points toward a person’s spiritual journey. It will bring you a lot of questions as well as compliments whenever you go out!
5. Tezcatlipoca Vs. Quetzalcoatl Tattoo
Tezcatlipoca is famous as the Aztec god of the North, the night, providence, the invisible, and even the darkness. On the contrary, Quetzalcoatl indicates day and how strength or creativity can empower people and bring them happiness.
Tezcatlipoca and Quetzalcoatl are important Aztec gods. However, their meanings and symbolism vary greatly and sometimes even depict opposite views. A tattoo that includes both the gods represents that everything has a dark meaning and everyone can have a dark side.
6. Tiny Quetzalcoatl Tattoo
Since Quetzalcoatl is a detailed and huge image, it covers a lot of space on the body. If you want to get ink that’s small or simple, you might be discouraged from seeing the large and fairly detailed designs of the Quetzalcoatl.
Fret not, because there are some small tattoos of Quetzacoatl consisting of only the head that might interest you. These tiny tattoos depict one yearning to learn and become wiser.
7. Quetzalcoatl Ouroboros Tattoo
This Ouroboros is a popular symbol of nature’s perpetual cycles, which also resonates with the god Quetzalcoatl, who rules the entire natural world. This tattoo is best suited for people who believe in the concept of reincarnation or even the magical qualities of nature.
You can get this unique tattoo to express your creative view of this world.
8. Colored Serpent Mayan Tattoo
You can skip the blank ink Quetzalcoatl tattoo and go bold with this one that includes vibrant colors. The big and colorful tattoo idea will help you showcase your creativity and ensure no one misses it!
9. Arm Quetzalcoatl Tattoo
The ones who want to cover up the entire arm but prefer to avoid the idea of getting a band can consider this unique design. This big Quetzalcoatl tattoo will cover your entire arm and create an aesthetic design that won’t go unnoticed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: The Aztec serpent tattoo represents Quetzalcoatl, the god of life, light, and wisdom.
Ans: The symbol of Quetzalcoatl is a feathered serpent or even the Venus planet.
Ans: A Quetzalcoatl tattoo will require as much time as any other tattoo design. Since the image is more intricate, it might take longer and more effort to complete.
Conclusion
The Aztec culture is fascinating, and it’s best represented by the symbols the people used to demonstrate their ideas and beliefs. Their symbols or tattoos also depicted their religious and spiritual practices or gods.
The Quetzalcoatl is a popular symbol of creativity, knowledge, fertility, and the pursuit of wisdom. There are numerous images or designs of the Quetzalcoatl tattoo that you can consider for your next ink!
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