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Description: | A complete lead or lead alloy convex (domed) spindle whorl of the Roman to Post Medieval period, dating from c. AD 43 - c. AD 1650.The spindle whorl is broadly circular in shape, and D shaped in cross section. The central hole is broadly circular in shape and has been cast slightly off central and is wider on the lower face than the upper face. The internal diameter of the hole measures 3.8 mm wide (lower face) and 3.1 mm (upper face). The upper face is domed and the lower face is flat. No traces of decoration are present on either the upper or lower faces.The whorl has a diameter of 20.1 mm and has a thickness of 8.9 mm. It weighs 20.8 g (0.73 oz).The whorl is a light to mid brown in colour, with an even surface patina. Abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the plough soil, has resulted in the loss of some 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 AD 1450). The weight of the spindle whorl is suggestive of a thick wool thread 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 similar examples of this type of whorl have been recorded on the database including WMID-C66B7C.
Original Image | Publisher: | http://finds.org.uk | Source: | Portable Antiquities | Identifier: | https://finds.org.uk/database/artefacts/ | Go to resource |
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