Describing the neolithic cord production process: Raw materials, techniques and experimental archaeology in La Draga (Girona, Spain; 5207–4862 cal BC)

Abstract

Cordage is related to daily activities and as such has been a basic element for self-suffiency since Prehistory. Due to the lack of their preservation in most archaeological contexts, the knowledge of these technologies in the past is limited. This paper analyses the production process through an experimental program of the cordage assemblage from La Draga (Girona, Spain; 5207–4862 cal BC). The site is an Early Neolithic site from north-eastern Iberia, where a wide vegetal set of fibre-based craft was recovered in waterlogged preservation conditions. First, a systematic identification of raw materials used for cord production is done. Subsequently an experimental approach to these cords, considering both the raw materials used and their properties, has been developed. The study aims to infer raw material selection for producing cords, as well as the importance of raw material and group standards involved in the final objects. The results showed a preferable selection of lime tree bark (Tilia sp.) and nettle bast fibre (Urtica sp.), which may be obtained from the surroundings of the site. Both were used to produce different types of cords, twisting preferred above braiding, which should be related to cultural standards and traditional learning processes.