50 MEXICO AND CENTRAL AMERICA 
nique well standardized. Most are modeled in a flat 
gingerbread fashion into a gross shape. Upon this 
gross shape special features are indicated by stuck-on 
ribbons and buttons of clay and by gougings and incis- 
ings with some pointed instrument. Modeling was 
done entirely by hand, moulds being as yet unknown. 
The figurines are usually from two to five inches in 
height and often represent nude women in sitting or 
standing positions with the hands upon the knees, hips, 
or breasts. The heads are characteristically of slight 
— - J 
Fig. 14. Archaic Figurine from Salvador. 
depth compared with their height, the limbs taper 
rapidly from a rather plump torso and hands and feet 
are mere knobs with incised details. When the figures 
are intended to stand erect, as is often the case, the feet 
show signs of having been pinched between the thumb 
and finger of the potter so that they have a forward and 
backward cusp and a broad base of support. Groov- 
ings are seen in connection with the hair, eyes, mouth, 
fingers, toes, and details of dress and ornament. Paint 
is often added to this surface to indicate tattooing, tex- 
tile patterns, ete. 
