The Chavin culture was the first great civilization of ancient Peru. Chavin artists created a remarkable ceramic legacy, notable for its abstract shapes and varied textures. Sometimes the vase forms seem drawn from nature, imitating gourds and fruits, while at other times they echo a deeper spirituality. This fascinating vessel has a stippled surface bisected by narrow channels and mysterious abstract protrusion at the front. What does it signify? Like a psychological test, it appears as something different to almost everyone who sees it. Intriguing, ambiguous, mysterious, this is an ancient artwork that appeals directly to contemporary taste.