HOLMES.] VASES OF THE LOST COLOR GROUP. HO 



position below the peripheral line. The elaboration in these circular 

 inclosures is very remarkable, as will be seen by reference to the three 



examples given m Figs. ITd. Kl.and 17;! In the first case the pmph 

 eral line is a red band nearly one-halt an inch wide and the ia\s 

 appear in groups above and below it. Within the four broader black 

 rays (Fig. 170a), which are the interspaces or remnants of the ground, 

 groups of lines have been drawn, in u idst casi 's curved at the inner ends 

 like an opening frond and acconipaiiii'd in all lascs \>y scrii-.s of dots. 

 An examination of anumberof vessels sliuws various degreesof con- 

 vention. It is clear, however, that these devices, showing curves, 

 hooks, and dots, are not of technical or mechanical origin, but that 

 they refer to deliueative originals of which they are survivals; but we 

 must remain in the dark as to what the originals were or what was the 

 precise nature of the idea associated Avith them in the mind of the 

 decorator. Another question refers to the arrangement of the jjarts 

 of the design in the five preceding figures. The distribution of the 

 designs is a matter of great interest, and much may be learned from a 

 close study of these siaecimens. 



Horizontal zones appear in the ceramic decoration of all countries, 

 and result, no doubt, from technical causes; but the division of zones 

 into compartments of peculiar shape is due to other influences. I be- 

 lieve the peculiar arched arrangement here seen results from the em- 

 ployment of plastic features, such as handles or life forms. The 

 ancient races wei'e accustomed to conceive of the vessel as the body of 

 an animal, an idea originating in the association of mythologit' con- 

 ceptions with art. The head and the tail of the particular creatun' 

 thought of were attached to opposite sides of the vase and conse(pient 1 y 

 interfered with the original zonal arrangement of the design wliere 

 it existed, or where it did not exist the sides were filled with devices 

 representing the markings of the creature's body. The decoi-ation 

 now consisted of four parts, two in the round or in relief and two in 

 color, tlie former occupying small areas and the latter wide areas, as 



