Linen: Early History

Linen stands as one of the most ancient fabrics in the world, embodying a rich history that dates back approximately 36,000 years. Remarkable evidence from the Southern Caucasus in present-day Sakartvelo (Georgia) reveals that early humans skilfully utilized wild flax fibers to weave linen-like materials.

Further discoveries dating to around 8,000 BC in Swiss lake dwellings showcase a fascinating variety of straw, seeds, fibers, yarns, and fabrics, illustrating the early diversity of textile creation. Linen’s domestication began in Mesopotamia around 7,000 BC, where it was primarily cherished by the ruling and affluent classes. However, in Ancient Egypt, linen became a staple among the broader population, cherished for its exceptional qualities. The Egyptians appreciated linen for its remarkable ability to withstand intense heat, allowing for breathability and rapid cooling, making it ideal for daily attire.

Additionally, linen played a vital role in mummification and burial practices. Mummies adorned in linen were symbols of wealth, purity, and light, and intriguingly, it even served as a form of currency in ancient Egypt. Priests donned linen as a powerful symbol of purity, highlighting the fabric’s profound cultural significance.