Ancient Spindle Whorls: Tools of Yesteryears

A
spindle whorl , a distinct object of the past, is a disc-shaped implement that was fitted onto a spindle to enhance and sustain its spinning speed. The primary purpose of this object was to provide momentum to the spinning process, a critical step in thread and yarn production, which were fundamental materials in weaving and textile manufacturing.

The spindle whorls featured below originated from ancient Persia, dating back to approximately 1000 BC. During this era, textiles played a central role in Persia, both in domestic life and trade, leading to the widespread use of spindle whorls. These objects offer valuable insights into the early development of textile production techniques and the roles these practices played in shaping societal structures.

Carved from stone, clay, or other locally available materials, these spindle whorls are more than just simple tools. They were often ornately decorated and demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship, indicating the importance of textile production in the society of the time. Today, these artifacts serve as tangible links to our past, allowing us a glimpse into the everyday lives of our ancestors and their cultural and economic pursuits.

 
 


SPND 1 -  19  * 21 mm
 



SPND 2
 

SPND 3 - 17 * 7 mm


SPND 4  -  23 * 15 mm
 


SPND 5  -  19 * 14 mm
 


SPND 6  -  5,5 * 8 mm
 



SPND 7  -  14 * 11 mm


SPND 8  -  13,5 * 11,5 mm
 

SPND 9  -  14,5 * 6,5 mm


SPND 9  -  19 * 9,5 mm
 

SPND 10  -  17,5 * 10,5 mm


SPND 11  -  14 * 11 mm
 

SPND 12  -  14 * 11 mm


SPND 13  -  14 * 11,5 mm
 

SPND 14  -  13 * 12 mm


SPND 15  -  17 * 10 mm
 

SPND 16  -  16,5 * 10 mm


SPND 17  -  16 * 13 mm
 


SPND 18  -  13,5 * 7,5 mm
 


SPND 19  -  14 * 11,5 mm
 

SPND 20  -  15 * 9 mm
 


SPND 21  -  18 * 8,5 mm
 

SPND 22  -  16 * 8,5 mm


SPND 23  -  19 * 12 mm
 

SPND 24  -  17 * 11 mm
 



 


 
 

 



 
   

 

Contact: Gunnar Muhlman - Gunnars@mail.com