Analysis of Pyramidal Loom Weights: Investigating Textile Practices from Excavations at Crnobuki Gradiste, Pelagonia, North Macedonia

Author(s): Jessica Bedell

Year: 2025

Summary

This is an abstract from the "A Global Perspective on Fiber and Perishable Craftways in Ancient Cultures" session, at the 90th annual meeting of the Society for American Archaeology.

This poster presents research focusing on the pyramidal loom weights uncovered at Crnobuki Gradiste in the Pelagonia region of North Macedonia. Building on previous findings that suggest significant activity at the site, our study examines the loom weights' clay composition, temper, slip, and imprints to reveal both manufacturing techniques and other aspects of the artifacts. We investigate whether the materials were locally sourced or imported to explore the origins of the artifacts. Environmental context is provided through the analysis of soil samples for radiocarbon dating and botanical remains. Experimental archaeology was used to replicate manufacturing processes, offering deeper insights into the loom weights' functional roles. This poster illustrates how integrating material analysis, experimental methods, and environmental data enhances our understanding of ancient textile practices and their broader significance.

Cite this Record

Analysis of Pyramidal Loom Weights: Investigating Textile Practices from Excavations at Crnobuki Gradiste, Pelagonia, North Macedonia. Jessica Bedell. Presented at The 90th Annual Meeting of the Society for American Archaeology. 2025 ( tDAR id: 509094)

Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 52311