_Forms of vessels._--Divesting the utensil of extraneous features, such as rims, handles, and legs, we have the following series of shapes, which shows a pretty full graduation of outline from extreme to extreme. Beginning with the simplest fundamental form, the shallow cup (Fig. 45, _a_), we ascend gradually to more complex outlines, such as are seen in the hemispherical bowl (_b_), the deep basin with slightly incurved rim (_c_), the globular form (_d_), and the elongated form (_e_). Occasionally we see an eccentric variation, such as is shown in _f_. Flat bottoms are unusual; a conical base is the rule. Outlines do not always exhibit these even, convex curves, but many are straight or concave in profile, as shown in Fig. 46. Complex forms are shown in Fig. 47, _a_ and _b_, and compound forms in Fig. 48, _a_ and _b_. Examples of these classes are numerous and important. The compound shapes result from the union of two or more simple forms. Eccentric forms are numerous and result in a majority of cases from the employment of some animal as a model. Thus, if an alligator or almost any quadruped is embodied in the vessel, the form tends to become elongated; if a crab or a fish is imitated, there is a tendency to flatness &c. The base is almost universally more or less conical, is rarely flat, and never concave, excepting as the result of the addition of an annular foot or stand. The radical shapes do not undergo any considerable change when rims, necks, handles, legs, and other appendages are added. The rim or lip is in many cases incurved, but as a rule it is turned outward. The margin is plain, symmetrical, and often considerably thickened. In a few instances the outline is rectangular or scalloped, as shown in Fig. 49, and the attachment of handles often leads to peculiar outlines, as will be seen further on. [Illustration: _a, b_ Fig. 48. Vases of compound forms.] [Illustration: Fig. 49. Square lipped vessel.] [Illustration: _a, b, c, d_ Fig. 50. Variations in the forms of necks and rims--various groups of ware.] The neck in its simplest form is a narrow upright band surrounding the orifice (Fig. 50, _a_) and is not differentiated from the rim. Variations in size and shape are shown in the remaining figures of the series. In _b_ it is a narrow constricted band beneath an overhanging rim, in _c_ it is upright and considerably elongated, and in _d_ it expands, giving a funnel shaped mouth. The exterior surface is very generally decorated with relieved or painted devices. High necked bottles and pitcher shaped vessels are unknown. [Illustration: _a, b, c, d, e, f_ Fig. 51. Arrangement of handles--various groups of ware.]