Final answer:
The Lanzon Stele at Chavin de Huantar is a significant religious artifact depicting a deity with human and animal traits, meant to awe onlookers. The granite relief features various carvings indicative of the Chavin's advanced stone carving skill and their integration of art with ceremonial functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Lanzon Stele is a significant artifact within Chavin de Huantar, representing the chief deity of the Chavin culture. This large granite stele is known for its lance-like shape and a depiction that combines both human and animal features, such as flared nostrils, bared teeth, fangs, and protruding claws. The stele, located deep within the temple's tunnels, is thought to inspire awe in residents and visitors, reflective of the culture's religious practices. Additionally, the granite relief made at Chavin de Huantar features various carvings of animals and hybrid deities, contributing to the temple's ceremonial significance.
The architecture of the temple, including terraces and central squares, alongside its adorned tunnels, is a testament to the Chavin culture's advanced skill in stone carving and construction. Moreover, the intricate carvings and the acoustic properties of the tunnels, which simulated the voices of the gods, shows a deep integration of art and engineering to create a profound religious experience. These elements not only demonstrate the Chavin's artistry but also indicate their spiritual and political ambitions during their zenith.