Trichinopoly Project Proposal Introduction

Trichinopoly, a form of metal working, is the intended technology to be examined within the context of an experimental archaeology framework. This form of metal working is often referred to as a “braiding technique”(Stevens 2004, p.5) although when searching for examples results do appear under Viking Knit and Viking Wire Weaving as well. Viking Knit had many probable uses and could be worn around the wrist or neck(with or without adornment), made to be used as an edge for fabrics, and made into chains for other decorative purposes(Bjornsson as cited in Haley, p.1) on fabric or metal objects. It is found in Northern European burials and amongst hoards(Stevens as cited in Standen 2008, p.1; Haley, p.1) in countries such as: Denmark, Ireland, Scotland, and Sweden (Gunnarsdottir 2005) as well as even earlier in Rome, Greece, and sites relating to the Byzantine Empire ranging from 1^st century BC – 4^th century AD(The British Museum as cited by Haley, p.1). The Anglo-Saxon Norse used trichinopoly from the 8^th century – 10^th century AD(The British Museum as cited by Haley, p.1) and it is not as common in the archaeological record as other similar techniques from contemporary locations, both within time and space, perhaps because of the process being labour intensive with it's narrow diameter(Haley, p.1; Fitzhugh; Bjornsson; Stevens cited by Standen 2005, p.1) and weaving. Knitting with metal is perhaps also quite time consuming as well. It was most likely utilized by prominent or wealthy men and has never been found in a grave identified as being female(Stevens; Graham & Campbell cited by Standen 2005, p.1). Silver tends to be the most common material used(Graham & Campbell as cited by Standen 2005, p.1) but search results with gold have appeared thus far. General Google and Wikipedia searches seem to link trichinopoly to a city in India although none of the formal sources appear to do so.

Bibliography

Gunnarsdottir S. 2005. A Collection of Knit Wire Chains.


Haley J. N/A. Trichinopoly (or Viking wire weaving).


Standen D. 2005. Documentation for: (Example) Silver Trichinopoly Chain.

Stevens L. 2004. A Research Journey: Trichinopoly Chainwork Is It Viking Chain Knitting?. http://userweb.suscom.net/~apolloniavoss.

-Maia