Neolithic cordage-making implements at La Draga, Spain (5292-4729 cal BC): Analysis and experiment

The finds of several remains of cordage in waterlogged conditions at the early Neolithic site of La Draga (5292-4729 cal BC) have conclusively shown that ropes were made with plant fibres there. Tools made from wood, bone, stone and even shells linked with the processing of plant fibres for their use in cordage and/or textiles, or for working with animal skins, have also been found. The present study focuses on a category of implement made from bovid bones that display two or three holes. We propose the hypothesis of a possible use of this type of implement as a tensioner to make cordage by twisting plant fibres. A morphometric study of the different specimens has been carried out and an experimental programme with replicas of the archaeological objects has been undertaken to produce a cord of similar attributes to one documented at La Draga. A use-wear analysis of the best preserved artefact has also been performed. The experimental study has enabled a better understanding of the cordage manufacturing process and provided evidence supporting the hypothesis of the function of those implements.