The beginning of every product design is always the most challenging. It requires a deep understanding of the artisan and their capabilities to determine what can and cannot be achieved.
To gain this understanding, we spent an entire afternoon in the workshop with Mohamed and his main artisan blower, Ahmed. Our goal was to familiarize ourselves with the craft and its limitations. We carefully examined our initial sketches and made necessary adjustments in terms of dimensions, taking into account the minimal tools and oven available in the workshop.
At the Hodhod workshop, they continue to work with traditional and minimal tools, using the same makeshift oven that has been used for centuries. The limitations of these tools and the confined workspace pose a constant challenge to the artisans, requiring them to demonstrate the highest level of skill and craftsmanship.
Working behind an oven with temperatures reaching 1,500 degrees Celsius is a demanding and tiring job. The artisan is constantly in motion, carefully maneuvering, shaping, and manipulating the glass. Every movement is precise and timed to perfection in order to achieve the desired outcome.
Witnessing Ahmed work his magic is truly captivating. Observing molten glass go through each step of the process, from scooping the perfect amount, to rolling and shaping it, to blowing and swinging it to the desired length, to opening up the mouth and creating the flared spout, and finally meticulously crafting the handle on the main body, is an exhilarating spectacle. It is a testament to Ahmed's masterful craftsmanship and a feast for the eyes.
