The use of the senses in the technical processes of resin tapping and wood tar making: An ethno-archaeological approach

Abstract

Sensory archaeology is a recent and dynamic field of research in English-speaking countries, but it is still in its infancy in France. Nonetheless, recent interdisciplinary studies have shown the interest of cross data between experimental sciences and human sciences from such a perspective. The importance of the use of the senses (sight, touch, hearing, taste, and smell) during the technical operational processes, which are by nature intangible, has been demonstrated by ethnological studies. The craftsman is attentive to what the material is "saying" while it is being transformed, and it guides that process thanks to the perception of those signs. The question of the use of the senses in the production of resin and plant tar arose from La Roche Redonne (Provence, France), a medieval and modern archaeological site. In response, two ethno-archaeological missions were carried out in the Middle and High Atlas Mountains (Morocco), which is still a conservation area concerning skills and traditional customs of the Mediterranean Basin, in 2010 and 2013. They revealed how the frame of sensitive experiences (sight, touch, hearing, and taste) are involved in the technical process, whatever the technique being used. What about the medieval and modern practices? If written documentation is not useful to answer this question, ancient scholarly literature shows that the use of the senses is an intangible, but fundamental element of the production of crafts.