On Mon, 8 Apr 2002, AA Piccini wrote:> With my archaeology hat on,
Going back to Kristina's original question, I suspect she needs to clarify
what is a "design" and whether it is separated from particular instances.
The example of "wheel" versus particular types of wheel is relevant.
The Indian ox cart has been described as a timeless design, in the sense
of being unchanging and suited to its environment and artesans. Since
"timeless" is antithetical to change, I assume a timeless design cannot
involve ideas of "fashion". "Design" implies "design for ...", so you
must be looking for things created for a purpose, which are well suited
and whose purpose remains. Would "the lever" count, or a specific use
such as a scale balance? How about the sickle, which has remained the
same design since malleable materials were invented? More ideas from
archaeologists please.
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