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Weighing the Evidence : -Determining and Contrasting the Characteristics and Functionality of Loom Weights and Spindle Whorls from the Garrison at Birka

The focus for this study is the illumination of the function of loom weights and their purpose within the warp-weighted loom. This study deals with Iron Age loom weights excavated at Birka, within the area known as the Garrison. This category of objects was originally classified as being fragments of bellow shields, an interpretation seemingly more corresponding with the site’s traditional interpretation. In order to give a fuller depiction of the textile production as a whole, spindle whorls found within the same defined area have also been included in this study. The main goal for the analyses of these two groups of fragmented finds has been to establish and re-create the functioning variables of these objects, that is, foremost their original shape and weight. Furthermore the objective has been to enhance the understanding of the functional parameters of the textile production in this area. This is partly achieved with the aid of comparing data regarding textile implements found in other areas of Birka. The results can confirm that the area held a capacity to manufacture a variety of different textiles, including very fine threads and weaves.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:UPSALLA1/oai:DiVA.org:su-87221
Date January 2012
CreatorsThorin, Ida
PublisherStockholms universitet, Arkeologiska forskningslaboratoriet
Source SetsDiVA Archive at Upsalla University
LanguageEnglish
Detected LanguageEnglish
TypeStudent thesis, info:eu-repo/semantics/bachelorThesis, text
Formatapplication/pdf
Rightsinfo:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess

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