ABSTRACT
This chapter was written by a textile chemist whose primary interests are the structure-property relationships in fibrous systems, the chemical modification of cellulose fibers, and the history of textiles. Composed for non-chemists, her essay is an overview of ancient fiber and dye types and the methods used to identify and characterize them. Its introductory level is appropriate for an interdisciplinary audience, especially since information on textile analysis is not usually included in the standard works on archaeological science. Raheel's historical section covers many geographical areas in the Old World (Europe, Africa, and Asia) and different time periods. More detailed references can be found in her references and selected readings at the end of the chapter.
