The Indus Civilization c9.31

c9.31

The pottery drain-pipes already alluded to were made entirely on the wheel, as were the pottery wheels, spindle-whorls, and certain pottery bracelets. The great majority of the figures of deities, human beings, and animals were also manufactured of clay, a suitable material which was easily procurable near either city and which had the advantage of being ready for use when mixed with water. The employment of clay for many household purposes besides pottery-making is always to be observed among those ancient peoples living near a great river which annually irrigated their land. Wood was no doubt extensively used as well, but all the objects made of it have perished, and, in any case, it requires a certain amount of skill in working, whereas even a small child can turn out quite presentable toys of clay, while the adult could make articles, not only for the use of himself and his household, but also for votive and other purposes.