The Knowledge of forging in Lombardy. The meaning of labour, and the usefulness of forged objects: an anthropological research among smiths and blacksmiths
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14672/ada2015379%25pKeywords:
iron work, smith, blacksmith, value, symbolismAbstract
The main question of this article regards the meaning of work for those doing it. In particular it discusses the relationship between smiths, blacksmiths and the objects they manufacture, in order to understand if or to what extent the value they attribute to what they produce is somehow related to the value and the meaning of their own artisanal activity. In the manufacturing of wrought iron, farming tools and horseshoes the emergence of industrial production has changed the way work has been done. Standardized decorations, industrial horseshoes, and spades produced by rotating mills are just a few examples. However, the division and mechanization of labour have not wiped out the work of the artisan. His/her role as assembler, a creator and the innovator is still remarkable.
Downloads
Issue
Section
License
Authors maintain the copyright of their original work and grant the Journal the right to first publication, licensed after 36 months under a Creative Commons Licence – Attribution, which allows others to share the work by indicating the authorship and first publication in this journal.
Authors may agree to other non-exclusive licence agreements for the distribution of versions of their published work (for example in institutional archives or monographs) under the condition that they indicate that their work was first published in this journal.
