SPINDLE WHORL

A complete lead or lead alloy bi convex decorated spindle whorl, of probable Medieval dating (AD 1100 to AD 1450).

The spindle whorl is sub circular in shape, and lentoid in section. Both the upper and lower faces have been decorated with raised decoration. One side has a repeating design involving a cross; a six petalled flower with a pellet centre and a U. The other side is decorated with an ovolo (egg and dart) style design. The central hole is circular in shape and has been cast / set roughly central. It has a internal diameter of 7.6 mm.

The whorl measures 24.9 mm in diameter, and 12.4 mm thick. It weighs 27.3 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.