Inv. no 9653

 

 The fragments belonging to inv. 9653 do not represent a woven textile. Instead, they appear to form part of a mat-like construction composed of very thick, ribbon-like elements with no observable ligature or interlacing. Their morphology suggests that the grave or the deceased may have been covered with layers of bark rather than with a textile. Because of the nature and state of preservation of the material, no thread diameters or technical measurements could be taken.

 Small lumps of red colour, as well as pink and white traces, were observed on the surface of the fragments. SEM–EDS analysis, however, did not confirm an intentional pigment; the colouration seems instead to derive from the surrounding soil.

Microscopic analysis was carried out at the Wiener Laboratory of the American School of Classical Studies at Athens. SEM observation supported the hypothesis, shared by the director of the Wiener Lab Dr. Panagiotis Karkanas and Christophe Moulherat, that the material may consist of tree bark. Further analyses will be necessary to determine the precise botanical origin.

According to Mylonas’ description of the tomb, traces of a mat-like cover were found within the burial, and it is possible that inv. no 9653 formed part of this covering. This unique find highlights the wide range of organic craft materials used in the early Mycenaean period and illustrates the craftspeople’s intimate understanding of the natural environment, which allowed them to select the most suitable materials for each specific purpose.