The Importance of Potter's Wheel in Mesopotamia

Pottery was an essential commodity in ancient Mesopotamia, and the invention of the potter's wheel revolutionized the way pottery was made. Here are the key points to consider:

The Invention of Potter's Wheel

The potter's wheel was invented in Mesopotamia around 3000 BCE and was a significant advancement in pottery-making techniques. It allowed potters to create pots with uniform shapes, sizes, and thicknesses quickly and efficiently.

Impact on Urban Economy

The potter's wheel had a significant impact on the urban economy of Mesopotamia. It allowed for the mass production of pottery, which was an essential commodity used for cooking, storage, and trade. The production of pottery increased, and it became more affordable, making it accessible to more people.

Increased Trade

The invention of the potter's wheel and the mass production of pottery led to increased trade within and outside of Mesopotamia. Pottery was traded for other goods, such as food, textiles, and precious metals. This trade helped to develop the economy and expand the influence of Mesopotamia.

Social and Religious Significance

Pottery was not just a practical commodity in Mesopotamia; it also had social and religious significance. Pottery was used for rituals and ceremonies, and some pottery objects were considered sacred. The invention of the potter's wheel made it easier to produce these objects, allowing for greater participation in religious and social practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the invention of the potter's wheel had a significant impact on the urban economy of Mesopotamia. It allowed for the mass production of pottery, increased trade, and had social and religious significance. The potter's wheel was a crucial invention that helped to shape Mesopotamian society and its economy.

Importance of wheel was
1. it was a technological landmark which was appropriate to a urban economy.
2. in the long run , the wheel enabled the Potter's workshop to "mass produce" dozens of similar pots at a time.
ans is also given in book on pg no. 38 last paragraph,ch-3