This intriguing sculpture is at first very mystifying. Is it a purely artistic creation? Or a whim of an eccentric artist? To our surprise we learn it is a churn for making butter! The milk was poured into the wide funnel and gently swung back and forth. The vessel is so beautifully balanced this act can be performed with one hand, while the other hand is busy doing something else. This extraordinary sculpture was made for a special purpose and for a person of high rank. The front depicts a man wearing a mask. He is bedecked with jewelry, has a nose ring and is naked- all features indicating his exalted status. The artist must have relished this commission. It's entire design is brimming with inventiveness and whimsy. The fantastic animals are so realistically done they have a life of their own. There is a jaguar on the back handle and the zoomorphic feet depict an alligator or snake and gives the whole object stability. This is a conversation piece, which will always amuse, delight, surprise, and keep everyone guessing!