Archaeologists tell us that the coil pot is one of humanity's oldest clay forms, dating back to the early elementary school years. Here, our potter pays homage to the ancient design, recreating it in claylike marzipan and producing a vessel for sweet surprises.

MATERIALS

Marzipan (often sold in a store's baking section)
Food coloring

Cut the marzipan into four even pieces, then knead 6 to 8 drops of various food colorings into each. Roll the blocks into "snakes." Form the pot's base by winding a snake into a spiral about 1 1/2 inches in diameter, then layer additional snake coils to form sides. When the pot is at the desired height (not too high, or it may collapse), gently pinch the sides so the coils stick together. For the lid, wind another snake into a spiral and press a half ring of marzipan into the center for the handle.

TIPS: Use any leftover marzipan to make objects for inside the pot, such as fruits or vegetables.

REVIEWERS' COMMENTS: "The marzipan is sticky and tastes really walnutlike." "It reminds me a lot of Play-Doh."

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