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Description: | Complete cast lead spindle whorl of probable Medieval date. The whorl is biconical in form with a central perforation. There is an inscription formed of raised lettering on both sides of the whorl. One side reads IESVS (Jesus) with the first S back to front and an initial mark between the second S and the J which is possibly a skull. The inscription on the second side has proved more difficult to decipher due to idiosyncratic lettering and wear. The probable reading of this word is MARIA (Mary) although the M is formed as a heart shape, the first A & R are possibly transposed with the third letter of the word inverted whilst the alledged letter I looks more like a letter T. Again there is a 'skull' as an initial mark separating the M and second A. There is room for an additional letter to have existed between the 'skull' and letter M although the surface is damaged in this area making it difficult to be certain.The skull is likely to be serving as 'memento mori' (remember you must die) symbolism. The use of the skull as a memento mori symbol became very popular in the fifteenth century.Dated c.1350-1550 (most likely to be 1400-1500).Dimensions: Diameter: 26.9mm; Diameter of hole: 10.55mm; Thickness: 13.05mm; Weight: 38.18g.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | http://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/r... | Go to resource |
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