Gwendoline Pepper

My research aims to shine new light on the medieval silk trade by answering the question “How are regional differences in the equipment and methods used to produce silk reflected in the characteristics of the resulting silk fibres and threads?” Using experimental archaeology in combination with microscopy, and drawing partially on my own experience with silk reeling. Silk was a highly valued, and extensively traded commodity during the Middle Ages and therefore provides an excellent case study for the vast trade networks which facilitated the transmission of material goods, culture, and knowledge between Asia, Europe, and Africa during this time period. I am working on the reconstruction of medieval silk reeling devices and methods from different geographic regions with the goal of characterising medieval silk threads in order to fill in gaps in research related to the manufacture and exchange of silk thread. The work of analysing silk mechanism structures has also involved the use of novelty materials as a means of testing mechanisms prior to committing to constructing them at a larger scale. Taking a technology-led approach of replicating medieval silk reeling technology will ultimately provide a framework for examining other more ephemeral variables relevant to the transmission of craft knowledge along the silk road including skill, status, and gender roles.