A seated human figure composed entirely of mathematical symbols, numbers, and equations - a stainless steel mesh of thought made visible. Created by Spanish sculptor Jaume Plensa for MIT's 150th anniversary, commissioned anonymously by an alumnus in honor of all who have helped build the Institute.

The figure sits between Massachusetts Avenue and the Stratton Student Center at 77 Mass Ave. Unlike Plensa's other works built from letters, the Alchemist uses numbers and mathematical symbols of varying sizes - the numeral six and the delta symbol are particularly prominent - evoking the energy of calculation and discovery mid-process. An opening at the base invites you to step inside.

Plensa placed this thinking figure here as a bridge between the world of symbols and the world of human experience - the alchemist who transforms raw knowledge into something alive. That is the spirit this space carries.