Holmes.] MODELING OF LIFE FORMS. 391 



The peculiar character of this class of heads is well shown in the 

 series given in Fig. 384. My observations have led me to suspect that 

 they may be the result of attempts to model in clay the mythical plumed 

 serpent which is so graphically delineated in the engraving upon the 

 little vase shown in Fig. 407. The fact that in one case legs have been 

 added to the base of the body militates against this theory. Their re- 

 semblauce to the gargoyle heads of mediaeval architecture suggests 

 the possibility of early European influence. 



If possible, a still more novel conceit is embodied in the handle of 

 the vessel shown in Fig. 387. It can be likened to nothing in nature 

 more readily than to the antler of an elk. This vessel is of a dark 

 brownish color, and is but slightly polished. A duplicate specimen of 

 inferior size and finish has recently been added to the National Museum 

 from a grave at Pecan Point. 



Similar to the preceding in general appearance are a number of bowls 

 or deep pans, embellished with the heads of animals. A very good 

 example is given in Fig. 388. The head has a decided resemblance 

 to that of a female deer or fawn. The tail appears upon the oppo- 

 site side of the basin, and is pendant, as in nature. Legs have been 

 added to the base of the bowl; these terminate beneath the body in 

 cloven hoofs. 



The small bowl, shown in Fig. 389, is nearly hemispherical in shape. 



Fig. 389. — Aaiuial-shaped buwl : Arkansas. — \. 



A small head, representing some animal, has been attached to the 

 rim. The exterior surface is covered with a number of groups of 

 roughly-worked concentric ridges, which may be meant to imitate hair. 

 These ridges have apparently been made by pinching up the clay be- 

 tween the nails of the fingers and thumb. Figures of similar form are 

 generally incised. This vessel is probably from the vicinity of Pecan 

 Point. 



The creature represented by the head, shown in Fig. 390, would not 

 be recognized from the cut, or perhaps not even with certainty from 

 any single specimen, but with a number of examples in view, there 

 need be no hesitation. The animal intended is a bat. In a number of 

 features the likeness is striking. The high top head, the angular ears, 

 and the small eyes crowded down upon the mouth are characteristic. 



