SPINDLE WHORL

A complete lead or lead alloy convex spindle whorl, of Roman to Post Medieval dating (AD 43 - AD 1650).

The spindle whorl is sub circular in shape, and D shaped in cross section. The central hole is sub circular in shape and has been cast approximately centrally. The internal diameter of the hole measures 7.8 mm wide. 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 23.5 mm and is 11.2 mm thick. It weighs 33.8 grams (1.19 oz).

The whorl is of a light to mid grey colour, with an even surface patina. The whorl has suffered from a minor degree of abrasion, caused by movement whilst within the plough soil. Some signs of damage, probably caused by the plough are present along the edge of the whorl.

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 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.