In the central region of Mexico, a vigorous ancient people, the Zacatecas, created a highly individual culture. Even though their art forms were influenced by nearby Jalisco and Nayarit styles, their splendid artistic efforts were still distinctive. This beautiful painted bowl is an exquisite example of the skilled hand of the Ancient Zacatecas artist at work. Burnished to a high sheen, the subtly hued interior of the bowl reflects light in a most ephemeral fashion. When turned over, the bowl greets us with a surprising array of patterns. Two sets of patterned lines dissect each other at the center of the bowl, diving the bowl into four quadrants, perhaps echoing the ordering og the earth's seasonal cycle. A delicate, stemmed floral motif also radiates from the center in two opposing sections of the bowl. Beneath each of these bulb-shaped images rests a thin crescent, perhaps representing the moon in one of its cyclical phases. In the two remaining sections of the bowl, a crosshatch design in the form of a chevron pattern appears, adding a sense of kinetic energy to this spirited piece. A wonderful sense of balance and rhythm radiates from this masterpiece, commanding our attention and touching our senses.