The King of Michoacan visit to Hernan Cortes. Engraving
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
The King of Michoacan visit to Hernan Cortes. Engraving
The King of Michoacan visit to Hernan Cortes. Third letter of Relation by Hernan Cortes (May 15, 1522). Engraving, 18th century
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14324384
© Thaliastock / Mary Evans
1522 Aztec Aztecs Conqueror Conquest Cortes Explorer Hernan Indians Indies Letter Letters Meeting Mexican Mexicans Mexico Michoacan Relation Spears Visiting
EDITORS COMMENTS
This engraving depicts a significant moment in the early history of the Spanish conquest of the Americas: the meeting between Hernan Cortes, the Spanish conquistador, and the King of Michoacan, in May 1522. The scene is described in the third letter of relation that Cortes wrote to Emperor Charles V of Spain. The image shows Cortes, dressed in European armor and seated on a chair, receiving the indigenous ruler, who is shown standing respectfully before him. Cortes holds a sword in his right hand, while the King of Michoacan is accompanied by a group of his men, some of whom carry spears. The setting is a city or town in the Indies, with trees and mountains in the background. The encounter between Cortes and the King of Michoacan took place during Cortes' second expedition to the region, which aimed to expand Spanish influence beyond the Valley of Mexico. The meeting was likely intended to establish diplomatic relations and secure alliances with indigenous leaders. However, it also marked the beginning of the Spanish conquest of Michoacan, which would continue for several decades. The engraving is a visual representation of the encounter as it was described in the third letter of relation, which was written in the 16th century but not published until the 18th century. The image reflects the power dynamics of the time, with Cortes as the dominant figure and the indigenous leader shown in a subordinate position. The use of European military technology, such as swords and armor, underscores the Spanish advantage in this encounter.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
