The scale of processing associated with the dyeing industry in Pompeii is a controversial subject. To determine the scale of manufacturing would allow an understanding of the operation of Pompeii's economy and its part in the Roman World. Previous studies have taken a theoretical approach, and no conclusive answer has been reached. Conversely, Investigations into the Dyeing Industry in Pompeii uses a new multi-disciplinary triangulated approach. A replica was constructed to gauge the operating parameters of a dyeing apparatus within the framework of the principles of experimental archaeology. The remains were re-examined in situ with the new operational and ergonomics understanding. The replica was amended to allow exploration of design features and ventilation. The throughput of the apparatus was placed within the context of the industry with modern manufacturing systems theory. Computer simulation was used to explore the long-term mechanical effects of the dyeing process on the materials used in the construction of the original apparatus and to determine if 'ratcheting' failure was due to creep. These combined methods have given an understanding of the significance of the industry that is grounded in engineering and archaeological principles but within the context of Pompeii.

About the Author
Heather Hopkins Pepper graduated with BSc Archaeology and PhD in Roman Engineering from the University of Bradford. She was made AIfA in 2009. She continues to research, present and publish widely, diversifying through collaboration with different disciplines, including recent experiments through the European Textile Forum to explore the choice of materials used in dyeing apparatus. She edited and co-edited the first and second proceedings of the European Textile Forum in 2013 and 2018.


Book Information
ISBN 9781789697421
Author Dr Heather Hopkins Pepper
Format Paperback
Page Count 212
Imprint Archaeopress
Publisher Archaeopress
Weight(grams) 777g