Moctezuma: Aztec Ruler

London welcomes a major new exhibition to The British Museum, with rare and precious objects from the reign of Moctezuma, the last elected Aztec Emperor.

Moctezuma Comes to London

This fascinating exhibition explores the complex and semi-mythical life and reign of Moctezuma II, and traces the foundations of modern Mexico.

Moctezuma consolidated Aztec control over an empire that stretched from the shores of the Pacific to the Gulf of Mexico, from 1502 to 1520.

From his reputation as a successful and cunning warrior to his mysterious death, the exhibition re-examines popular interpretations of Moctezuma.

Recent archaeological discoveries and iconic material from Mexico and Europe are on display, many for the first time in the UK.

Highlights of Moctezuma in London

The exhibition presents masterpieces of Aztec craftsmanship including works commissioned by Moctezuma himself, which bear his image and his name glyph.

Highlights include:

• The impressive stone monument known as the Teocalli of Sacred Warfare
• An exquisite turquoise mosaic mask
• Gold work showcasing the craftsmanship of artisans in the Aztec court
• Oil paintings on wooden panels with inlaid Mother of Pearl (Enconchados)
• Idealized European portraits of Moctezuma
• Stunning colonial Codices

Great World Leaders at London's British Museum

Moctezuma completes The British Museum's hugely successful series of exhibitions exploring the power and empire of some of the world's greatest leaders.

This incredible new exhibition follows blockbusters on China's First Emperor, Qin Shihuangdi; the Roman emperor Hadrian; and most recently, the Iranian monarch Shah Abbas the Great.