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Kayak and Canoe Design Bulletin Board
Re: Baidarka thingamajig n stuff
Posted By: Will Brockman In Response To: Re: Baidarka thingamajig n stuff (Greg Stamer)
Date: Thursday, 27 January 2000, at 6:07 p.m.
. There are various theories of
> why this shape was used and perhaps it was a combination of factors such
> as tradition, spirituality and performance. What we do know is that the
> bifid bow, which is wide at the top and narrows to a fine point, creates a
> concave bow cross section, a very difficult shape to obtain with a skin
> covered frame.> I would not use the word crude to describe either these kayaks or their
> makers. The Aleut kayaks are a very sophisticated design and many of their
> components (bone joints, flexible frame, bifid bow) are still a mystery
> and provide plenty of food for thought for contemporary designers.> Greg Stamer
I agree with Greg that one needs to be judicious in the use of the words "primitive" and "crude" to describe the societies in which these designs developed. I think it's also important to resist the tendency to ascribe the design innovations to "superstition."
There was a very interesting discussion of some of these issues (but with respect to Inuit designs, not Aleut) that took place on this board in late October, I think. It's worth a look -- search the archives for "Inuit rules" during that time period and the thread will probably turn up.
--Will
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