Garments for a goddess? Apropos of an inscribed loom weight from Segesta

Abstract

The present paper discusses a loom weight with an inscriptions, recently discovered during the study of the finds from Grotta Vanella deposit at Segesta. Firstly, the archaeological context of the loom weight will be illustrated, also in the light of new data that emerged during the recent review of material from the deposit. There follows a discussion of the typology, decorative detail and function of the tool. Drawing on recent experimental archaeology in textile research, calculations of the potential quality of cloth that could have been manufactured with the given loom weight is also presented. Following a presentation and discussion of the epigraphic and linguistic evidence, which shows that the inscription on the loom weight fits well into the general pattern of the pottery ‘graffiti’ from the same deposit. As such, the inscription could hypothetically be attributed to the sacred area on Monte Barbaro. Despite our very limited knowledge of the Elymian language, it is undoubtedly votive. This new inscription is important for the reconstruction of the Elymian language, because it confirms some data already suggested from the study of other Elymian documents.