This Inkscape extension transforms an object along the x-axis. The bounding box remains unchanged. Points near the center of the object move to create the illusion of a curved surface. Points move left, if you choose an exponent > 1, and right if the exponent is < 1. An exponent of 1.0 does exactly nothing.
This can be used in combination with the bend path effect to create a cone projection that retains aspect ratio. Idea from Simon Budig while preparing for the lampshade workshop.
It doesn't work for me on linux,
is it possible that it needs an update for Inkscape 1.0?