Early evidence (late 2nd millennium BCE) of plant-based dyeing of textiles from Timna, Israel

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179014
• Publication Date: 2017-06-28T17:36:13Z
• Authors: Naama Sukenik; David Iluz; Zohar Amar; Alexander Varvak; Vanessa Workman; Orit Shamir; Erez Ben-Yosef
• Keywords: Craft; Textile; Bronze

In this article, we focus on the analysis of dyed textile fragments uncovered at an early Iron Age (11th-10th centuries BCE) copper smelting site during new excavations in Timna Valley conducted by Central (CTV) Project, as well those found Arabah Expedition Hathor Temple (Site 200), dated to Late Bronze/early Ages (13th-11th BCE). Analysis HPLC-DAD identified two organic dyestuffs, Rubia tinctorum L. and indigotin, from a plant source (probably Isatis tinctoria L.). They are among earliest plants known dyeing craft cultivated primarily for purpose. This study provides evidence textiles utilizing chemical process based industrial Levant. Moreover, our results shed light society operating mines time, suggesting existence elite that was interested these high quality invested efforts procuring them long-distance trade.