Anyone recognize this type of string?

[Stina71]

Maybe not suitable for this forum, but I'll try.

Does anyone recognize this type of cord?
It must be a really old cord, partially torn.
I found the cord indoors in an older building.
I have also found old bells tied together with this type of cord.

I've heard that some cords used to contain asbestos.
Could this be one of those asbestos cords or what do you think the material is?

Please, no comments about me being asbestos-phobic, I'm just seeking information about the material.
If the question is inappropriate for this forum, just choose not to comment.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Avemo]

Asbestos yarn was used for sealing stoves and similar. That looks like cotton twine. Test if it burns. If so, it's not asbestos.

 

[KnockOnWood]

I could imagine that these are old lead ropes.
That is, those ropes used to lead horses and cows.
Braided line has often been used there, perhaps so that they don't kink.

It might as well be hemp or sisal, or more likely than cotton.

 

[Immobil]

I think it looks like the old type of sealing strips. Nowadays, you also see them as wicks in oil lamps.
Check and compare: http://webshop.gysinge.nu/products.php?product=T%E4tningslist-8-mm%2C-pris%7B47%7Dmeter

 

[Stina71]

Thank you for your comments! I can add that the string is quite thin. 4-5 mm or something similar. Maybe a bit thicker.

Immobil, it really resembles the sealing strips you linked to. However, my strings look like they have some slightly different material inside than what is braided on the outside.

Old lead ropes. Were they that thin? And what material were they made of? Since I've also found the string used as a string through old bells, I also think it might have had something to do with animals.

 

[KnockOnWood]

...
Old lead ropes. Were they that thin?...

No, I thought it looked much thicker in your picture.

Immobil is probably closer to the truth, if it wasn't just a decoration string simply.