American Museum of Natural History Research Library
author: American Museum of Natural History

Aztec Mexico: Discovery of Templo Mayor (Exhibition)
birth: 1982 July 27
death: 1982 October 6
Exhibition. Opened in July 27, 1982 and closed October 6, 1982. Located in Section 3, Floor 3 in Gallery 3 at the American Museum of Natural History. "Aztec Mexico: Discovery of Templo Mayor" was an exhibition including 100 objects ranging from human skulls to jewelry dating from about 1000 B.C. to the 16th century.
Summary
"Aztec Mexico: Discovery of Templo Mayor" was an exhibition including 100 objects ranging from human skulls to jewelry dating from about 1000 B.C. to the 16th century. The objects were found during the excavation of Temple Mayor, known also as the Great Temple of Mexico-Tenochtitlan, located beneath the heart of present-day Mexico City. Dr. Emily Umberger was the guest curator. A highlight of the exhibit was a cast of the Coyolxauhqui stone, a large circular stone which was the focal point of Aztec religious ceremonies. Also on view were sculpted objects, ceramics and the contents of 21 offerings. A special room was devoted to the cultures of Mexico before the Aztecs. As noted by Thomas D. Nicolson, the then director of the Museum, the exhibit at the Museum was the only time it was seen in this country. It was previously on view at the Petit Palais in Paris, the Museo Arqueologico in Madrid, and in Mexico. The exhibition was organized by Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History and the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It was on view in Gallery 3 of the American Museum of Natural History from July 27 to October 6, 1982.
Individuals and institutions involved in the creation of the exhibition: Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History; The Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Emily Umberger.