I remember having this discussion about the jug and the lota in the second year of my architectural education during a design workshop. Each with its distinct form essentially highlights its unique design process and the underlying thought.
Consider the Jug, a product of the industrial revolution,the machine age. The mediocre result of a mechanical unthinking process, of a unidirectional thought:
The need-to hold water,the product- a cylinder which makes a stable sturdy container.But whats the use if you cant hold it right..?, the addition, a handle on one side.Then someone realised that one needs to channelize the water to not let it spill.Thus a final alteration to the design- 'the beak.'.Ah! here I have a product which perfectly solves all my needs .
Compare it with the Lota,which has existed for centuries.
The lota is a product of man's creativity, made by his own hands(the stainless steel one is just a replica of the original lota, made on the wheel).One perfect form which solves all the purpse.No unnecesaary additions sticking out- Smooth curves,beginning gently at the bottom and culminating in a widened rim.This rim at the top allows you to hold it with a proper grip ,allows easy pouring and at the same time beautifully articulates the overall form.
Both the lota and the jug serve the same purpose of holding and serving water.Then where lies the difference?
Hands and machine..?
Clay and stainless steel..?
Thinking and Unthinking?
Regional and universal?
Art and technology?
Indian and western thought?
Read more...
