Stirrup Vessel with Textured Surface c. 800

This earthenware "Stirrup Vessel with Textured Surface" was made by an artist from the Chavín culture of ancient Peru. The Chavín civilization, which thrived between 900 and 200 BCE, was deeply rooted in religious and ceremonial practices. Pottery, like this vessel, played a central role in these rituals. Its stirrup spout form is distinctive, and was engineered to regulate air flow and prevent liquid spillage, a practical design element that speaks to the ingenuity of its creators. The textured surface of the vessel might reference the natural world, perhaps echoing the skin or fur of an animal, an important deity, or an ancestor. The vessel might have been used to serve drinks during rituals in which participants sought to connect with the spiritual world. Consider how this object transcends mere functionality, acting as a conduit between the earthly and spiritual realms. It invites us to reflect on the intersection of daily life and spiritual practice and on the beliefs of a society long past.