Artwork Page for Spindle Whorl

Details / Information for Spindle Whorl

Spindle Whorl

700s - 900s

Iran, early Islamic period

Medium
bone, incised
Measurements
Overall: 0.6 x 2.4 x 2.4 cm (1/4 x 15/16 x 15/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Edward Gans 1963.654
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print
A circular, cream-colored bone spindle whorl features a central hole surrounded by incised patterns. Clusters of circles with pitted centers decorate the disk, while groups of straight lines fan toward the edge in opposing quadrants. A dark brown spot marks the bone near the center. The smooth surface is punctuated by small nicks and natural grain, emphasizing the functional form of this tool used for spinning yarn.

Spindle Whorl

700s - 900s

Iran, early Islamic period

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