Learn about the mysterious Staff God of ancient Peru on this gold plaque from the Chavín culture, made 400–300 BCE. This golden plaque displays the Staff God, who was an important figure revered across the ancient Andes. The Staff God blends snakes, jaguars, and birds of prey, symbolizing power in Andean art.

Chavín artists used complex visual illusions known as "contour rivalry," challenging viewers to see multiple figures. Staff God imagery persisted in Andean cultures for thousands of years, from Chavín de Huántar to Tiwanaku. This short video is part of a series that breaks down key terms in art history, archaeology, and history!

This video is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about:

• Chavín Art

• The Ancient Andes

• Andean History

• Global Ancient Art

• Gods and goddesses

• Art History

• The Ancient Americas

CHAPTERS

0:00 A golden plaque

0:16 Chavín culture

0:37 The Staff God

1:35 Contour Rivalry

1:49 The Andean Highlands and Peruvian Amazonia

2:07 Other images of the Staff God: Raimondi Stela, Crowns, and Chavín de Huántar