248 COILED BASKETRY IN BRITISH COLUMBIA [ETH, ANN. 41 
diagonal lines and that built of horizontal and vertical sections, are 
quite distinct and probably had entirely different histories. The 
meander is also derived from the combination of short vertical and 
horizontal sections, but because of its construction is confined to ver- 
tical and horizontal bands. 
Checkerwork likewise, which undoubtedly contributed to the 
appreciation of the diagonal and which is inextricably associated with 
it, is naturally present in great abundance. 
A rapid survey of the elements and designs, as well as closer study, 
gives the impression of a preponderance of diagonal forms, although 
vertical lines and arrangements as well as right angles are not lack- 
ing, particularly owing to the great popularity of the mouth or head 
design. Having touched upon the lines necessary in the construction 
of figures, and which are present in the art of this region, it will be 
seen that curved figures are conspicuous by their absence. The 
designs are entirely angular. 
It now becomes necessary to discuss the elements used and their 
treatment and subdivision according to their sizes. The simple geo- 
metric forms before mentioned will be reviewed separately from this 
standpoint. The figures which result from the combination of these 
are not especially common and may be better comprehended by 
illustrations. 
THE SQUARE 
We begin the discussion with the square, since its form is presented 
immediately to the eye on the accomplishment of the first stitch in 
beading or imbrication. All beaded or imbricated designs are 
composed of series of squares or rectangles, made either of single or 
double coil stitches or larger combinations of these. Checkerwork is 
purposely omitted from this discussion. The smallest square is 
necessarily of one solid color—red, black, or white. It can not be 
subdivided, but squares which are produced by a number of stitches 
en masse, or by an outline which may include many stitches within its 
boundaries, may be subdivided in a number of ways. The extent or 
kind of subdivision depends on the size of the square. 
In speaking of subdivision it must not be understood that the people 
consciously subdivide a large square, but the term is merely used in 
an objective sense. Of the many possible combinations or sub- 
divisions in a square composed of four stitches where three colors are 
available, comparatively few are actually represented. 
Before discussing the subdivided square jt is necessary to state that 
occasionally the single stitch in any of the three colors is used as an 
element, or two stitenas if one would be too narrow (pl. 41, a, c). 
But when the square of four stitches appears there are odd gaps in 
the series as actually found, compared to what is theoretically possible. 
The square composed of four stitches may be divided in various ways 
