Comparative study of the crafts traditions in the Batanes islands (Philippines) and Lanyu (Taiwan, Republic of China) based on plant anatomy-phytolith analysis and ethnobotany

Identifier:  TDX:3339

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX3339

Authors:  Kerfant, Celine

Abstract:
This doctoral thesis aims at providing a better knowledge of basketry traditions and plantbased raw materials that were used for this craft in the Bashiic islands located in Southern Taiwan and Northern Philippines. These islands are excellent context to carry out ethnobotanical studies: Batanes and Lanyu Islands are both isolated contexts and host numerous vegetal taxa, most of which are indigenous or even endemic and can be used as markers of contact. Handicraft is mostly made of plant fibres of specific properties, such as limited length, flexibility, strength, un-putrescibility, among others. Creating a reference collection of Ivatan (Batanes Islands) and Tao (Yami) (Lanyu Island) present-day handicraft will be useful in identifying and comparing plants and the techniques used for manufacturing ancient handicrafts. This type of analysis can be applied to archaeological artefacts where botanical micro remains- such as anatomical parts, starch grains and phytoliths- may have been preserved. Some baskets which are used to protect bodies and things are made into a knotting-tying technique employing Musa textilis- abaca and other banana species fibers, these baskets are representing a unique knowledge. Musa spp. status within other useful forest products can be of great interest to understand human and plant propagation through times, especially the Austronesian diaspora.