There was a period in human history where we developed glass, but hadn’t yet figured out glassblowing. In order to shape the glass into vessels, Mesopotamians got creative and developed a technique called slumping.
They started with the glass ingots they were able to produce, and fused several of them together to create a larger mass. This was then placed over a form made of clay or stone, then placed into a kiln. Firing the kiln heated the glass, which then began to slump down over the form. In this manner, they were able to produce glass bowls and plates.
Industrial designer and design researcher Marco Compardo demonstrates the technique here, which he worked on at the UK’s Grymsdyke Farm, an experimental design lab.
“These are photos of the slumping process, showing how heat and gravity are used to shape glass (and ideas) over a mold. As the glass softens in the kiln, it gently conforms to the form beneath it—capturing smooth, organic curves without the need for cutting.”
“‘Unroll’ is a butter tray conceived through digital calculations, designed to create a seamless, wrinkle-free dome using the slump glass technique. The outcome recalls the material handling found in ceramics.”
“Although rooted in contemporary, digital methods, the design resonates with processes that are more closely associated with the tactile, hands-on approach of ceramics, where craftsmanship and material manipulation are key elements.”
You can see more of Campardo’s work here.
