Fig. 2. Wedging (b)
Types of wheel.
There are various types of wheel in general use today. The wheel run by electric power does not concern us here since it cannot have been used by the Greeks. In studio potteries, a kick-wheel is often used. In this the operator stands and kicks with his left foot against a treadle, the weight of his body being supported by the right (fig. [3]). Another fairly popular type has a large, heavy disk at the bottom revolving in a horizontal plane, and kept in motion by one foot of the operator (fig. [4]). A very simple type of wheel in use some time ago is illustrated in fig. [5]. Here the motion is imparted by an assistant turning the handle.
Fig. 3. Kick-wheel with treadle
Any one of these three types may have been used by the Greeks. In the representations of ancient potters at work (cf. [pp. 64 ff.]) the wheel appears to have been propelled either with the foot or by an assistant.
Fig. 4. Kick-Wheel with disk