SPINDLE WHORL

Cast lead or lead alloy bi-convex decorated spindle whorl of probable Medieval date (1300 – 1650 AD). The spindle whorl is sub-circular in plan. Both faces have a cast rim around the edge and also a similar rim around the circumference of the inner hole. The central hole is broadly circular and has been cast / set slightly off centre. The diameter of the hole measures 11.3mm. The design on the upper and lower is broadly the same consisting of a series of radiating diagonal lines forming irregular panels. Each panel is decorated with a letter or symbol cast in high relief. The front face reads (clockwise / left - right): Panel with vertical cross with diagonal chevron in each quarter: Y L A N [upside down] followed by two panels of diagonal chevrons. The reverse similarly reads: P N [reverse bared] XY S [reversed and on its side] Y P [backwards]. This inscription is poorly executed and seems to be illegible; this is similar to other inscriptions in the medieval period. The spindle whorl is a mid-light grey cream colour with an even but broken patina. The whorl has also been abraded and rolled in the plough soil and the edges have been damaged. Spindle whorls are used for a long period of time and as such are very difficult to date precisely without other evidence (such as pottery). This form is often attributed to the medieval period.

The whorl measures 28.8mm diameter, is 12.6mm thick and weighs 31.12 grams.