|
Date: |
|
Description: | A complete lead or lead alloy bi convex decorated spindle whorl, of probably the Medieval period, dating from c. AD 1100 - c. AD 1450The spindle whorl is sub circular in shape, and lentoid in section. Both the upper and lower faces have been decorated with a segmented design made up of raised diagonal lines sloping to the left and radiating outwards with a raised pellet in each of the segments. The central hole is circular in shape and has been cast / set slightly off centre. It has a internal diameter of 10.9 mm.The whorl measures 28.9 mm in diameter, and 11.2 mm thick. It weighs 31.2 g.The whorl is of a light to mid grey colour, with an even surface patina. Abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the plough soil, has resulted in a loss of the original surface detail.Spindle whorls, as an artefact type, can be hard to date accurately as they remained in use for a long period of time, however lead alloy spindle whorls of this type are normally attributed to the Medieval period (c. AD 1100 to 1450 AD). The weight of the spindle whorl is suggestive of a thick linen or wool fibre being spun, as there is a direct relationship between the weight of the whorl and the thickness of the resulting thread. Fine threads such as silk require a lighter whorl than those used to spun wool or linen. Other examples of this type of spindle whorl have been recorded on the database, including WMID-6F7714 and WMID-48B755.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/ | Go to resource |
|
|