The Moon Goose Era (Aztec culture, Lewis Spence)

 In the rich tapestry of Aztec mythology, the origin of the world is a tale intertwined with gods, sacrifice, and the eternal cycle of creation and destruction. According to Aztec cosmology, the world has gone through multiple iterations, each with its own unique era and destiny. Among these iterations, the fifth incarnation of the world, known as the Moon Goose Era, holds a special place in Aztec lore.

Long before the birth of mankind, the gods convened in the celestial realm to create the world anew. They gathered around the primordial bonfire, known as the Sacred Hearth, and embarked on a cosmic dance to bring about the rebirth of the universe. It was during this time that the mighty god Quetzalcoatl and his brother Tezcatlipoca emerged as the guiding forces in shaping the destiny of the new world.

In the Aztec creation myth, the world that preceded the Moon Goose Era was destroyed in a catastrophic event known as the Fourth Sun. The gods, determined to create a more harmonious and balanced world, embarked on a daring journey to shape the fifth incarnation. It was during this process that Quetzalcoatl, the plumed serpent deity associated with wisdom and fertility, assumed a central role in the cosmic drama.

As the world took shape, Quetzalcoatl and his divine brethren needed a symbol to represent the delicate balance of life and the cyclical nature of existence. They turned to the majestic goose, a creature known for its graceful flight and connection to the celestial realms. The gods bestowed upon the goose an otherworldly radiance, making it a celestial messenger and a vessel of divine energy.

In the Moon Goose Era, the world flourished under the watchful eyes of Quetzalcoatl and the cosmic goose. The land was abundant, and the people thrived in an era of prosperity and enlightenment. The celestial goose, its feathers imbued with the luminescence of the moon, served as a symbol of wisdom, fertility, and divine guidance. Its cry echoed across the vast landscapes, reminding the people of their connection to the celestial realm and the cyclical nature of life.

During this golden age, rituals and ceremonies honoring the moon goose became central to Aztec society. Temples were erected in its honor, and the people celebrated its presence in their daily lives. The celestial goose was believed to bring blessings, fertility, and protection to the land and its inhabitants.

However, as with all eras in Aztec cosmology, the Moon Goose Era eventually reached its destined end. The cosmic cycle demanded change, and the world would undergo yet another transformation. The era of the moon goose, marked by its radiant presence and celestial significance, would yield to a new era, ushering in the next chapter in the perpetual dance of creation and destruction.

In the annals of Aztec mythology, the Moon Goose Era stands as a testament to the cyclical nature of existence and the delicate balance that governs the world. Its mystical allure continues to captivate the imagination, reminding us of the profound connection between the celestial and earthly realms and the eternal dance of life and renewal.

Sources: Lewis Spence (1874 - 1955) - "The Myths of Mexico and Peru" (1913): Spence, a Scottish historian and mythologist, explored the mythology of various ancient civilizations, including the Aztecs. His book "The Myths of Mexico and Peru" offers an overview of Aztec mythology, focusing on their gods, creation myths, and religious beliefs. While his interpretations have been subject to criticism, his work sheds light on the understanding of Aztec mythology in the early 20th century.

Rare Sighting of Moon Goose, Etienne Trouvelot, 1874

 

Rare Sighting of Moon Goose, by French artist and astronomer Etienne Trouvelot, 1874

Etienne Trouvelot: A Journey of Art and Astronomy

Etienne Trouvelot, a name synonymous with both artistry and astronomy, was born on December 26, 1827, in Guyencourt, France. From an early age, Trouvelot displayed an exceptional talent for both visual art and scientific pursuits. His diverse interests would shape his remarkable journey and leave an indelible mark on the fields of astronomy and illustration.

Trouvelot's artistic prowess was recognized at an early age, and he received formal training as a lithographer in his youth. His skillful hand and keen eye for detail led him to collaborate with renowned artists and scientific institutions, capturing the natural world with precision and beauty. His artistic talents extended to various subjects, but it was his celestial illustrations that would catapult him to fame.

Driven by an insatiable curiosity, Trouvelot turned his attention to the night sky and the wonders it held. With his meticulous observation and dedication, he became an esteemed astronomer, focusing particularly on the intricate study of celestial phenomena, such as comets and solar prominences.

In 1870, Trouvelot's artistic and scientific pursuits intertwined in a serendipitous manner. He gained access to the Harvard College Observatory in Massachusetts, where he began an astronomical collaboration that would shape his legacy. His ability to combine his artistic skills with his scientific knowledge resulted in a series of exquisite astronomical illustrations, capturing celestial objects with unparalleled detail and accuracy.

However, Trouvelot's contributions to science extended beyond his artistic talent. He was a pioneering researcher, exploring various aspects of astronomy and contributing to the field with numerous discoveries. His observations of celestial events, such as the transits of Venus and Mercury, added to the growing body of astronomical knowledge. This "rare sighting of Moon Goose" seems to imply that there are still things we don't know about the Moon, or at least about the Moon at the end of the 19th Century.

Despite Trouvelot's profound impact on the scientific community, his career faced a tragic setback. In the late 1870s, an unfortunate incident occurred where some of his imported gypsy moth egg samples accidentally escaped into the wild, leading to an ecological disaster in North America. Trouvelot, devastated by the unintended consequences of his scientific endeavors, shifted his focus away from astronomy and dedicated his efforts to studying the life cycle and control of the destructive moth species.

Etienne Trouvelot's legacy lives on through his artistic contributions and scientific achievements. His illustrations continue to inspire and educate, revealing the beauty and intricacies of the cosmos. Trouvelot's ability to bridge the realms of art and science serves as a testament to his unique vision and unwavering passion. His life's work is a testament to the boundless curiosity and limitless possibilities that lie at the intersection of art and astronomy.