Ryder's investigation detailed the presence of several varieties of both wild and domestic goat hair in the various samples by measurement of the minute fibers and electron microscopic analysis of their surfaces to determine these differences. He also compared his results to known source contemporary wool samples. Figure 21 shows a sample fiber from a LCP shawl under high magnification using electron microscopy. Figure 22 shows the weave of the same shawl under slightly lower magnification.

Differentiating sheep wool from goat hair was not difficult, however, according to Ryder:
"..we know little about the range of fiber diameter both between and within different species and varieties of wild sheep, wild goats and domestic goats…" and this is the primary reason for the inclusive data the study produced on this topic."

Prior to Ryder's analysis there was some speculation Plate Five was made of wild fibers and that they might have even been from some animal other than a goat. This was proven to be false as goat hair was positively identified and, though not as positive, indications pointed to their coming from a wild rather than a domesticated animal. The pigmentation, or rather lack of it, was the basis for Ryder's assessment, however, the uniformity of the fibers also indicated "careful selective breeding", an indication of domesticity.

Later Ryder did question the belief pigmentation was indicative of non-domesticity and he wrote:
"…but could the pigment indicate a wild animal? There is simply too little comparative material available to draw conclusions…" .

All in all this study was only preliminary since it was, according to Ryder:
"…virtually the first investigation of actual fibres from a relatively small number of (actual shawls ed.) samples for which little comparative material from animals was available for comparison."

The highly realistic draftsmanship, superb raw materials and technique all substantiate Plate Five's placement in the Late Classic Period. Another indication is the execution of the border and minor border. This version introduces the prototype for the soon to be standard realistic crocus flower with an attendant leaf and scrolling vine. The leaf and vine lack the delicacy of draftsmanship and execution seen in the previous Plate and this is quite understandable and fitting, as that example is from the earlier ECP.

Over all the realistic drawing here is in perfect harmony with LCP work, however, the smaller size of the flower, its multiple row layout, and crocus, leaf and vine border are all features synonymous with the next SFP, which this example should be viewed as presaging.