clay Clay is made up of fine particles of dirt that float in streams and rivers, sink to the bottom and then stick together Clay can dry in the sun and harden as water evaporates from it Soaking sun dried clay in water for 1-2 weeks causes it to get soft again Firing clay in the kiln makes it permanently hard Humans began using clay in 14000 BC – 16000 years ago Humans began firing clay in 6000 BC – 8000 years ago Clay was used to make bricks for houses, dishes, and statues (art) Clay tablets were the first know writing medium – inscribed with cuneiform

Egyptian Cartouche A cartouche is an oval circle with a name written on it (a nameplate) It was attached to coffins of Egyptian kings and queens Artists were hired to create elaborate cartouches The cartouches offered protection from evil spirits in life and after death – especially the circular border Their names were written down so they would not disappear when they died Cartouches have become symbols representing protection from evil and good luck

1. Measure a 2”by 6” rectangle on your paper with a ruler 2 1. Measure a 2”by 6” rectangle on your paper with a ruler 2. Add name/initials/decorations 3.Remember to add circle around edge 4. work clay for 30 seconds 4. roll/flatten clay to approx 2.5”by 6.5” 5. mold/cut clay into a cartouche shape (straight sides – curved top and bottom) 6.copy your paper design onto your clay 7. smooth the clay lightly with your finger (especially around your design) 8. poke a hole in the top with a straw ¾” from top 9. Add your initials to the back of the cartouche