Vessel Decorated with Animals and a 'Landscape' North Caucasus, Maikop Burial Mound Middle of the 3rd millenium BC Silver H 9.6 cm This spherical silver vessel with a tall broad neck is decorated with chasing. The neck bears the representation of three chains of mountains and trees. Three rivers flow from the mountains into the lake represented on the bottom of the vessel. Amongst the trees is a figure of a rearing bear. The body of the vessel is covered with representations of animals in procession arranged in two tiers. This vessel is regarded as an outstanding example of ancient art. Like many other objects form the Maikop barrow this vessel proves the existence of cultural links between the peoples of the North Caucasus and the Orient.